HIGHLIGHTS

Section 5
Maki-e in the Momoyama Period – Gold and Nanban

After the long period of warfare came to an end and Toyotomi Hideyoshi (1537-98) unified the country, there was a rush to rebuild damaged castles, temples, shrines, and impressive residences in various regions. This created a great demand for maki-e to decorate such architectural spaces and furnishings. This, in turn, resulted in the fashion for various maki-e techniques, later collectively termed Kōdaiji maki-e, in which complicated processes were simplified. Its large and bold designs such as autumn plants or crests of paulownia in an expansive manner were greatly favored.
　In the Momoyama period (1573-1603), Christian missionaries and merchants from the West reached Japan. They were mesmerized by maki-e and ordered Christian ritual implements and Western-style furniture to be shipped from Japan. This type of work for export is commonly referred to as nanban lacquerware.
　In addition, traditional maki-e using the techniques of togidashi maki-e (polished-out maki-e) and takamaki-e (high relief maki-e) continued to be made throughout this period, while also being inspired by the bold and colorful spirit of the age.

  • Folding Screen Depicting Jurakudai CastleMomoyama period, 16th century / Mitsui Memorial Museum, Tokyo
    On View from April 15 to May 7
  • Pair of Folding Screens Depicting the Arrival of Nanbanjin (southern barbarians); Left screenEdo period, 17th century / MOA Museum of Art, Shizuoka
    On View from May 9 to 28
  • Important Cultural Property
    Chest for Poetry Collections with Autumn Plants in Maki-e    Momoyama period, 16th century / Kōdaiji Temple, Kyoto
    On View from May 9 to 28
  • Important Cultural Property
    Square Sake Bottles and Their Outer Chest with Flowers and Birds in Maki-e and Inlaid Mother-of-pearl    Momoyama period, 16th century / Kyoto National Museum
    On View from April 15 to May 7
  • Portable Christian Shrine with Flowers, Trees, Birds, and Animals in Maki-e and Inlaid Mother-of-pearlMomoyama period, 16th century / Nagoya City Museum, Aichi
    On View from May 9 to 28
Section 6