Muromachi period (1392-1568), 15th centuryRitual sake vessel with urushi-e design of cranes, pine trees, turtles, and bambooTurned and assembled wood; the entire surface lacquered black and decorated in red lacquerHeight: 38 cmProvenance:Manno collection, OsakaFrom the ancient times up until the Heian Period, sake was brewed mainly as an offering to the gods and served in Shinto shrines in unglazed earthenware vessels. From Kamakura period onwards, large size wooden vessels (heishi) became popular and banquets were held for ceremonies and festivals, where people took turns drinking sake from...
Okina SōmenA full face russet iron samurai amour’s mask formed and decorated to resemble the face of an old manEdo period, 18th centuryArmor for the face - mengu - developed towards the end of the Muromachi Period (1336- 1573) with the double role of protection and a fastening point for the kabuto ropes through hooks or rings. However, masks that completely cover the face were never common, as not very practical, and their spread was restricted to high-ranking samurai who could wear them for official occasions as an indication of their social status. For this reason original sōmen are...
A wood netsuke of a tanukiby Kokei, early 19th centuryRacoon dogWooden netsukeSigned: KokeiHeight: 3.5 cmThis netsuke represents the Tanuki (raccoon-dog) while he is beating his distended belly like a drum. The Tanuki is part of Japanese mythology and often appear in Japanese folklore as a shape-shifter with supernatural powers and mischievous tendencies. Can transform into any living or inanimate shape, but often assumes the form of a monk or a tea kettle to play tricks on people. In legends, the Tanuki can cast powerful illusions: they can turn leaves into fake money or horse...
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