Japanese Lotus Leaf Bowl

Name/Title

Japanese Lotus Leaf Bowl

Entry/Object ID

MK_0434

Description

This captivating pair of Japanese bronze lotus leaf-shaped basins from the 19th-20th century are more than mere artifacts; they embody a transformative era in Japanese history, born from the radical shifts and reforms of the Meiji period. The period, inaugurated in 1868 with the restoration of imperial rule, marked a profound shift from feudalism to modernity, propelled by radical social and political changes. Japan, once secluded from international trade for over two centuries, embraced a new era of engagement with foreign cultures, particularly Western countries, under Emperor Meiji and his wife Empress Shōken's rule. The emperor even adopted many features of Western culture into his personal life, including shearing his traditional topknot and donning Western attire. The new era left an indelible mark on Japan's art. Encouraged by the government's embrace of innovation and a heightened focus on artistry, a wave of new artistic techniques emerged, resulting in works exhibiting a level of fine detail surpassing their Western counterparts: a legacy that endures, hardly matched even in contemporary Japan. Metalwork especially flourished as, in the wake of the samurai class's disappearance, Japanese forgers transitioned from crafting armor to creating objects destined for display. Beautiful workmanship and artistic details emerged in many household objects such as the intricate lotus leaf design for the bowl, folded lotus leaf legs and the small frog inside which is almost a secret for the maker and owner if the bowl is full. Now used to hold local floral displays, the prominent placement of these beautiful lotus bowls in the Mauna Kea’s lobby is a homage to the craftsmanship and artistry of this period. This piece recently underwent significant restoration.

Artwork Details

Medium

Bronze

Made/Created

Artist

Artist unknown

Time Period

19th Century, 20th Century

Place

Country

Japan

Continent

Asia

Dimensions

Height

7 in

Location

Floor

Lobby Level

Building

Main Tower

Room

2nd Floor Art Storage Room

Floor

2nd Floor

Building

Beach Wing

Area

Main Lobby

Floor

Lobby Level

Building

Main Tower

Room

Interim Main Lobby/Restaurant #3

Building

Golf Clubhouse

Area

Main Lobby

Floor

Lobby Level

Building

Main Tower