Japanese ceremonial sake cup
Forani Collection
Cat. No: IN74-533

Gilded red lacquer sakasuki (ceremonial sake cup), depicting on the interior three minogame (hair tailed turtles) in a stream with three cranes in pine trees on the bank, and on the exterior two minogame. Late 19th early 20th century, Japan. D 12.75 cm. Acquired: Kyoto, Japan.

Note. The ceremonial drinking of sake has always been part of Shinto ritual and is found today in ceremonies of inauguration and festivals of inception, for new buildings and business enterprises as well as for the New Year and for weddings. For all such occasions sakuseki are used, made in auspicious red lacquer and decorated in gilded maki-e.

Photo: John Noone IMG_1233.jpg