Coffer in Nanban (Southern Barbarian) Style
Unknown Artist
ca. 1600–30
Medium
Gold maki-e and mother-of-pearl inlay on black lacquer; gilt-bronze fittings
Dimensions
H. 8 7/8 in. (22.5 cm); W. 14 in. (35.6 cm); D. 7 1/2 in. (19.1 cm)
Classification
Lacquer
Culture & Period
Japan · Momoyama period (1573–1615)
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Accession Number
2015.500.2.30
Tags
Art Historical Context
This exquisite coffer, crafted in the distinctive Nanban ("Southern Barbarian") style around 1600–30, exemplifies the fusion of Japanese artistry with European influences during Japan's early global encounters. The chest, measuring about 9 inches high and inches wide, features a black lacquer foundation adorned with intricate gold *maki-e*—a technique where fine gold powder is sprinkled onto wet lacquer to create shimmering designs—and vibrant mother-of-pearl inlays depicting flowers and plants. Gilt-bronze fittings add a luxurious touch, making it both a functional storage piece and a displa...