Tiered Writing Box
Original Language TitleSuzuribako
Artist
Iizuka Tōyō
(Japanese, active 18th century)
Dateca. 1775
MediumLacquered wood with gold and silver inlays
DimensionsOverall: 8 1/2 × 13 3/4 × 8 1/4 inches (21.59 × 34.93 × 20.96 cm)
Credit LinePurchase: the David T. Beals III Fund
Object numberF78-23 A-F
On View
Not on viewCollections
Gallery LabelThis writing box was commissioned by a feudal lord and was elaborately decorated for show while remaining functional. Made from the sap of lacquer trees, lacquer is a lightweight and durable material that can be mixed with pigments. A variety of designs covers the exterior of this box: cranes and sailboats as well as abstract patterns. These designs are made by various application techniques, such as mixing gold and silver flakes in the layers of lacquer. A bold swath of red lacquer finishes the striking appearance.
Information about a particular artwork or image, including provenance information,
is based upon historic information and may not be currently accurate or complete.
Research on artwork and images is an ongoing process, and the information about a
particular artwork or image may not reflect the most current information available to the Museum.
If you notice a mistake or have additional information about a particular artwork or image,
please e-mail provenance@nelson-atkins.org.
