Product Description

5476          A black lacquer kōdansu (incense cabinet) decorated in gold maki-e with chidori (plover) in flight

The interior, fitted with three drawers has a design of scattered sakura (cherry blossom); the same motif is used for the inside of the door this time showing the blossom floating in a stream.

Japan 15th/16th century Muromachi/Momoyama period

Dimensions H. 17cm x W. 14.5cm x D. 25cm (6¾” x 5¾” x 9¾”)

Chidori (plover) are migratory shorebirds that transit Japan in spring and autumn. Chidori in flight have been a favoured theme of art and poetry for more than a thousand years. The chidori is an auspicious symbol for the warrior class because the bird overcomes high waves and strong winds to migrate. It is seen as an emblem of perseverance and the conquering of obstacles. It is also associated with the legendary hero Yamato Takeru, whose body and soul are said to have taken flight after his death as a giant white plover.