清水寺蒔絵螺鈿小箱|Small Box with Scene of Kiyomizudera Temple

Unknown

early 19th century · Copper with black lacquer and mother‑of‑pearl inlay · Asian Art

The Buddhist temple complex depicted on the lid of this box represents Kiyomizudera, or the Temple of Pure Water, in the Higashiyama district of Kyoto. The temple is located near the Otowa waterfall, famed for its wish-granting and healing properties. Kiyomizudera, which was founded in the late eighth century, has been a popular destination of pilgrims and visitors for centuries. This box was probably made for export to Europe.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 19th century

Medium

Copper with black lacquer and mother‑of‑pearl inlay

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

H. O. Havemeyer Collection, Bequest of Mrs. H. O. Havemeyer, 1929