Nesting Boxes

Artist Murasaki Shikibu

CultureJapanese

MediumWood | Lacquer

DimensionsOverall: 1 1/2 x 3 5/8 x 4 7/8 in. (3.8 x 9.2 x 12.4 cm)

InscribedLargest box reads on top: "Murasaki Shikibu (authoress' name), "Genji-monozatari" (Genji story). Inscription translated by Ken Nakamura, 8/31/57. Slip of paper came with box & reads "The gold lacquer incense box received from Prince Hosen-in for the wedding present"-Kwan-Bun period 1663 A.D. According to Martin Lorber (Oriental Advisor at Christie's): Cover of box reads "Genji Monogotari" {Tales of Genji) Tales of Genji was written by Lady Murasaki, 11th century (remarks by Martin Lorber, Nov. 18, 1993).

Credit LinePurchase by Dr. James C. Perry

Object number57.33.4

Not on view

DescriptionNesting set of three gold lacquer boxes. Large outer box is decorated as if a book. With peg fasteners. Lacquer hexagonal diaper ground with circular winged birds as a medallion. Inside, two smaller boxes tightly fit: one with a flying ho-ho among gold clouds. The other has small lion-dogs within a medallions on fretwork ground. Each box has vertical panelled inscription on top in "grass" writing. Lacquer of excellent quality.