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Cosmetics Box with Chrysanthemums (base)
From the collection of Cleveland Museum of Art. Free to download, adapt and use — no permission needed.
About this work
In China, the chrysanthemum was historically appreciated for its association with the Double Nine Festival and the reclusive life of the poet Tao Yuanming (AD 365-427). In Japan, the 16-petaled chrysanthemum came to symbolize the Japanese imperial family after Emperor Gotoba (1180-1239) chose the motif as his personal emblem, having it applied to his sword and everyday utensils. This box proves that the flower also appeared on lacquer wares as early as the Kamakura period.
Cleveland Museum of Art’s own descriptionCredit lineCosmetics Box with Chrysanthemums (base) (菊蒔絵手箱), early 1300s. Japan, Kamakura period (1185–1333). Lacquer on wood; overall: 17.6 x 29 x 22.8 cm (6 15/16 x 11 7/16 x 9 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, John L. Severance Fund, 1963.513.a
