Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice

Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice by Shibata Zeshin

Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice is a notable work by the Japanese artist Shibata Zeshin, created using lacquer on wood. Zeshin, renowned for his mastery in lacquer art, was active during the late Edo and early Meiji periods, a time of significant cultural transition in Japan. This piece exemplifies his innovative approach to traditional Japanese art forms, blending meticulous craftsmanship with playful subject matter. The depiction of Daikoku's hammer, a symbol of wealth and prosperity, alongside three mice, reflects Zeshin's ability to infuse humor and narrative into his work. Zeshin's contributions to the art of lacquer painting have had a lasting impact, influencing both contemporaries and future generations of artists. His works are celebrated for their technical excellence and unique artistic vision, securing his legacy as a pivotal figure in Japanese art history.

"Daikoku's Hammer and Three Mice" by Shibata Zeshin is a lacquer on wood artwork that exemplifies the artist's mastery in utilizing traditional Japanese lacquer techniques to depict a playful scene involving Daikoku's magical hammer and three mice. The piece reflects Zeshin's innovative approach to combining classical themes with a modern sensibility, characteristic of the Edo period's artistic evolution.