Untitled

Unknown

16th–17th century · Black lacquer with mother-of-pearl inlay · Asian Art

In China, squirrels were traditionally associated with reproductive power and clusters of grapes with abundance, together forming an auspicious theme popular in ink paintings, textiles, and ceramics. Because sons were seen as crucial to carrying on the family name and to supporting their parents in old age, such imagery often expressed a wish for many boys. Similarly, in Korea the combination symbolized longevity and good fortune. Inspired by these conventional associations, the lacquer artisan who designed this box created a playful composition with curling tendrils and plump grapes. These elements are infused with rich texture through the juxtaposition of thick mother-of-pearl with black lacquer, as well as through the addition of fine incised details to the surface of the inlays.

Artist

Unknown

Date

16th–17th century

Medium

Black lacquer with mother-of-pearl inlay

Culture

Japan (Ryūkyū Islands)

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2019