Writing Table with Pine, Bamboo, and Plum

Unknown Artist

1400s

Writing Table with Pine, Bamboo, and Plum by Unknown Artist

Medium

Lacquered wood with gold and silver sprinkled powder (maki-e) and metal fittings

Dimensions

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Classification

Lacquer

Department

Japanese Art

Museum

Cleveland Museum of Art

Credit

Edward L. Whittemore Fund

Accession Number

1958.429

About this artwork

Low writing tables like this one were developed for use by those seated on the floor. They often had matching writing boxes. The table features the classic design of pine, bamboo, and plum, known together as the Three Friends of Winter. Indicating resilience in the face of harsh conditions, pine is evergreen, bamboo bends but does not break, and plum is the first flower to bloom in early spring. The plants are a metaphor for strength of character.

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