Wierook benodigdheden

About this artwork

verzamelaarsmerk, verso, gestempeld: Lugt 2760

Art Historical Context

**Wierook Benodigdheden (Incense Utensils)** *By Kamisaka Sekka, 1903, color woodcut, 235 × 354 mm* Kamisaka Sekka's *Wierook Benodigdheden* captures the refined elegance of Japanese incense utensils, essential tools in traditional rituals like the tea ceremony and meditation. Rendered in a delicate color woodcut, this print showcases Sekka's mastery of pattern and form, depicting vessels and implements with stylized grace. The title, Dutch for "incense necessities," hints at its place in European collections, bearing the collector's mark of Frits Lugt (Lugt 2760) on the verso—a testament to its international appeal. Created during Japan's Meiji era (1868–1912), when East met West, Sekka (1866–1942) revitalized the Rinpa school's decorative tradition with modern flair. Influenced by his European travels, he infused ukiyo-e woodblock techniques with Art Nouveau curves and bold colors achieved through precise multi-block printing. This intimate-scale work (about 9 × 14 inches) exemplifies his pattern books, blending functionality with artistry. Culturally, incense utensils symbolize sensory harmony in Japanese aesthetics, evoking tranquility and impermanence. Sekka's innovative designs bridged craft and fine art, influencing global modernism and mingei folk crafts. A gem for visitors, it invites contemplation of ritual beauty preserved in vibrant print.

About the Artist

Kamisaka Sekka · 1866–1942

Kamisaka Sekka (1866-1942) was a pivotal figure in early twentieth-century Japanese art, recognized as a master of the Rinpa (or Rimpa) school revival and a pioneer of modern Japanese design. Born in Kyoto to a samurai family, Sekka successfully bridged traditional Japanese aesthetics with Western Art Nouveau influences, creating a distinctive synthesis that profoundly influenced Japanese design e...