江戸時代 蘇東坡蒔絵硯箱|Writing Box with Chinese Poet Su Dongpo and Attendant
Unknown Artist
second half of the 18th century
Medium
Black lacquer with gold, silver, and red togidashimaki-e
Dimensions
H. 1 7/8 in. (4.8 cm); W. 8 3/4 in. (22.2 cm); D. 9 3/4 in. (24.8 cm)
Classification
Lacquer
Culture & Period
Japan · Edo period (1615–1868)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Bequest of Stephen Whitney Phoenix, 1881
Accession Number
81.1.170
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite writing box (suzuri-bako), crafted in Japan's Edo period during the second half of the18th century, exemplifies pinnacle of lacquer artistry. Produced by an unknown master, it served as a portable desk accessory for scholars and samurai, housing an inkstone, brushes, and ink while symbolizing refined taste and intellectual pursuit. Adorned with scenes of the revered Chinese Song dynasty poet Su Dongpo ( Shi) and his attendant donkeys, the box reflects Japan's deep admiration for Chinese literati culture, blending poetic nostalgia with everyday utility. The medium—black lacquer ...