A FINE LACQUER OKIMONO OF SUGAWARA NO MICHIZANE

拍品描述

A FINE LACQUER OKIMONO OF SUGAWARA NO MICHIZANE Japan, 19th century, Meiji period (1868-1912) Exquisitely crafted, the illustrious poet Sugawara no Michizane is depicted astride a large ox, standing firmly with its head slightly bowed. The ox’s muzzle is bound by a golden rein, which contrasts strikingly with the animal’s dark coat. Lord Sugawara is dressed in voluminous robes, with his pants featuring a refined checkered pattern overlaid with golden crests, emblematic of the Oda clan. His hands rest in front of his abdomen, holding a shaku, which emerges from beneath his expansive cloak, richly adorned with subtle black takamaki-e. The serene expression of the scholar is distinguished by a deep, assertive gaze, a gentle smile, and a long-pointed beard, all crowned by his distinctive headgear, adding to his noble presence. HEIGHT 31.3 cm Sugawara no Michizane (845-903) was a preeminent scholar, poet, and statesman of the Heian period in Japan. He achieved distinction in waka and kanshi poetry and contributed significantly to courtly intellectual and cultural life. After his political downfall and exile, popular reverence elevated him to the Shinto deity Tenman-Tenjin, protector of learning. Alongside Taira no Masakado and Emperor Sutoku, he ranks among the ‘Three Great Onryo of Japan’, spirits believed to wield power after death. Sugawara no Michizane is often depicted with an ox, reflecting a shrine legend in which, after his death in exile at Dazaifu, the ox pulling his cart refused to move, signaling the site where he wished to be buried. This event became central to his cult, and the ox emerged as a symbol of his gentle character and the peaceful transfer of his remains, now commonly represented in Tenjin iconography.

图片