Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice

"Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice," created by the Japanese artist Shibata Zeshin in the late 19th century, exemplifies the artist's mastery of lacquer techniques and his ability to blend traditional themes with innovative aesthetics. The painting features Daikoku, the deity of wealth, depicted alongside three playful mice, symbolizing prosperity and abundance, and reflects the Meiji period's cultural shifts towards modernization while retaining elements of Japanese folklore.

"Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice" by Shibata Zeshin features a dynamic composition centered around the figure of Daikoku, the deity of wealth, depicted with his iconic hammer. The painting employs a rich color palette and intricate detailing, particularly in the rendering of the three mice, which are positioned playfully around the hammer, highlighting Zeshin's mastery of the lacquer technique and his ability to convey texture and depth.