Japan

Title

Towel stand with design of peacock feather pattern

Place of origin

Japan

Period

Edo (Tokugawa) period 1615 - 1868 → Japan

Year

18th century-19th century

Media category

Woodwork

Materials used

maki-e; lacquer and gold on wood, with metal mounts

Dimensions

65.5 x 33.2cm

Signature & date

Not signed. Not dated.

Credit

Gift of Mrs Ella Bodor 1994

Accession number

645.1994

Location

Not on display

Further information

The rigid class system of pre-modern Japan ensured the supply of quality metalwork, lacquerware, ceramics, woodcarving and other goods required by the ruling class. While a craftsman's living was secured by his patrons, he was required to ensure that his skills be continued by his son or an appropriate student. The towel stand and the writing box (containing inkstone, waterdropper and brushes) [Acc.no. 346.1989] are good examples of everyday objects made with the elegant 'maki-e' lacquer technique.

'Lacquerware', The Asian Collections, AGNSW, 2003, pg.220.

Bibliography (1)

Jackie Menzies (Editor), The Asian Collections Art Gallery of New South Wales 2003, 'The World of Samurai Culture', Domain, 2003, 220 (colour illus.).