Art Resource - ART211440

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Lacquer chest, Japanese, Edo period, early to mid-18th century. The inlaid chequerwork and saw-toothed borders on this high-quality lockable chest are typical of work made for export, but the designs on the panels are more classically Japanese in style. On the right are the conventional 'autumn grasses', which appear repeatedly in Japanese art and decoration, especially paintings. On the left is a depiction of the Kiku Jidô (Chinese Keuh Tsze Tung), the Chinese 'chrysanthemum boy', who according to legend was the favourite of the Emperor Muh Wang. However, Kiku Jidô was exiled for accidentally touching the emperor's cushion with his foot. Before Kiku Jidô was sent away, Muh Wang taught him words of the Buddha that would ensure his safety and long life. In exile Kiku Jidô wrote the words on chrysanthemum petals and the dew which washed the sacred characters away was treasured as an elixir of youth.
JA, 1912.10-12.20

Location British Museum/London/Great Britain

Unique Identifier ART211440

Type Image

Purpose Public

Size 1600px × 1153px

Photo Credit Erich Lessing / Art Resource, NY

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