1790
Incense Ceremony Tools and Box
NakamotoJapanese (active Choshu)
Image 1 of 21 / 2
The cutting block, saw, chisels, mallet, and knife in this box are tools for preparing incense. A popular pastime among the aristocrats of early Japan was a game that tested skills in matching various incenses by their fragrance. The circular crest of three hollyhock leaves indicates this box was made for a member of the Tokugawa shogun’s family, perhaps as part of a bride’s dowry.
This record is part of an ongoing effort to share accurate and evolving information. If you notice anything we should improve, we welcome your feedback at [email protected]
Images on this site are shared for educational use. For image rights, permissions, or to learn more about image rights and access, email [email protected]