江戸時代 関屋蒔絵螺鈿盆|Tray with Scene from the Tale of Genji

Unknown

early 17th century · Black lacquer with gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay · Asian Art

The size, geometric motifs, and extensive use of pearl shell suggest that this tray may have been intended for trade to Europe. The imagery, however, derives from the Tale of Genji, one of Japan’s most famous literary works. Written by Lady Murasaki Shikibu (ca. 978–ca. 1014), this lengthy book traces the customs of the aristocratic society and the tumultuous love life of Hikaru Genji, a distant member of the imperial family. The tray illustrates a moment when Genji (seated in the cart and not visible) passes by a former illicit lover while traveling. Both are assailed by bittersweet memories as they glimpse each other in passing.

Artist

Unknown

Date

early 17th century

Medium

Black lacquer with gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay

Culture

Japan

Department

Asian Art

Credit line

Purchase, Mary Livingston Griggs and Mary Griggs Burke Foundation Gift, 2002