桃山時代 根来指樽 一対|Pair of Sake Caskets

Unknown

late 16th–early 17th century · Red and black lacquer (Negoro ware) · Asian Art

Coating objects in red lacquer was a common technique in Japan as early as the Heian period (794–1185). During the subsequent Kamakura period (1185–1333), Buddhist monks at Negoro Temple, in present-day Wakayama prefecture, began layering red over black lacquer, producing items known as Negoro wares. This pair of sake casks could be suspended by cords from the two rings at the top for easy transport. Such casks were often congratulatory gifts.

Artist

Unknown

Date

late 16th–early 17th century

Medium

Red and black lacquer (Negoro ware)

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015