Tea Caddy with Design of Turtle 19th century

Editor: So, this lovely little object is a 19th-century wooden tea caddy by Shibata Zeshin, currently residing at the Met. I'm really drawn to the contrast between the stark black lacquer and the gilded turtle. What stands out to you in this piece? Curator: I am fascinated by the turtle image. In East Asian cultures, it symbolizes longevity and wisdom. Here, Zeshin hasn’t simply placed the turtle; he has stylized it. The sweeping gold element flowing from the turtle’s shell... doesn’t it suggest a current, perhaps even a link between the earthly and the celestial realms? Editor: Oh, I like that, the celestial realm! I hadn't thought of it that way; it looked to me more like stylised water perhaps? Is it common for artists to include such symbolism in everyday objects like this? Curator: Absolutely! The integration of symbolism into everyday life was quite prevalent. Think of it: tea, an essential daily ritual, combined with an image representing long life. The user is subtly reminded of larger themes, cultural values woven directly into the mundane. Consider how it could function as a form of cultural memory. What do you make of the overall darkness of the caddy? Editor: The blackness makes me think about reverence. Like the tea stored inside should be valued or appreciated. The dark contrasts so sharply with the golden figure, which elevates the golden colour, right? I'm curious about the function of this tea caddy in the Meiji Period? Curator: Excellent observation. Perhaps the darkness emphasizes restraint, a call for mindful contemplation. What strikes me about your question is how the Meiji period signified a period of cultural shift and innovation, what continuities are retained through tea ceremonies, and in turn, works of art? How does the image itself resist such cultural changes? Editor: That's true... seeing this piece has helped me better grasp how objects carry historical and cultural meanings. I appreciate you sharing that. Curator: And your insights help clarify its meaning today! This dialogue helps make clear how the meaning of images like this evolve with us.