Achthoekig bord met een voorstelling van Shiba Onko en bloemranken

About this artwork

rand: diameter 25,5 cm

Art Historical Context

This delicate octagonal plate, titled *Achthoekig bord met eenstelling van Shiba On en bloemranken exemplifies the exquisite craftsmanship of anonymous artisans around 1690–1710. Measuring just 4.7 cm in height and 25.5 cm in, it was created using the "turning" technique—lathe work that shapes wood, ivory, or similar materials into precise, symmetrical forms. Theagonal shape adds an elegant geometric flair, while the central depiction of Shiba Onko, surrounded by lush flower garlands, blends figurative narrative with floral ornamentation, evoking a sense of harmony and nature's abundance. Produced during the height of Dutch East India Company (VOC) trade with Japan, this piece reflects the cultural exchange between East and West. Japanese export arts like lacquerware and porcelain heavily influenced European decorative objects, and turned wares were prized for their smooth, polished surfaces ideal for painting or inlay. The anonymity of the creators underscores the collaborative workshops of the era, where skilled turners and decorators produced luxury items for affluent collectors. Today, this small treasure highlights the fusion of Japanese motifs—possibly drawing from folklore or literati traditions featuring figures like Shiba Onko—with European tastes for refined tabletops. Its modest scale belies its role as a conversation piece, inviting visitors to ponder the global threads woven into everyday elegance.