Artwork Page for Incense Burner with Lid

Details / Information for Incense Burner with Lid

Incense Burner with Lid

late 1300s

Japan, Nanbokuchō period

(1336–92)
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Medium
black lacquer on wood with decoration in maki-e; metal rims; bronze lid
Measurements
Overall: 7.7 x 10.8 cm (3 1/16 x 4 1/4 in.)
Credit Line
Purchase from the J. H. Wade Fund 1960.195
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
Print

Description

This container's repeated, undulating, rounded sides evoke waves over which the articulated plovers sweep. The bronze cover (probably a later addition) mimics the design of a fishing weir. Overall, the container brings to mind the seashore. The earthy quality of the lacquered surface demonstrates the interaction between a man-made pattern (the plovers) and the somewhat unexpected surface of a natural material such as wood.
A dark lacquer incense burner features a lobed, six-sectioned base and a domed metal lid. Small gold birds in flight, with long necks and legs, pattern the dark brown exterior alongside a network of fine cracks. The bronze lid is formed by an openwork lattice of overlapping triangles. Thin metal rims line the top edge of the base, where the perforated cover rests.

Incense Burner with Lid

late 1300s

Japan, Nanbokuchō period (1336–92)

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