Negoro Tray (1392–1573 CE)

This Muromachi period (1392–1573) tray from Japan, now housed at The Cleveland Museum of Art, exemplifies the sophisticated Negoro lacquer technique, which evolved over centuries to create a striking visual effect. With a diameter of 39.4 cm (15 1/2 in.) and a height of 11.5 cm (4 1/2 in.), this piece provides an engaging insight into Japanese craftsmanship and religious culture during a dynamic historical period.

This tray was crafted during Japan’s Muromachi period, a time marked by political instability and artistic innovation. The tray’s creation is linked to the Negoro-ji temple, a Buddhist temple located in Iwade, Wakayama Prefecture. The temple was associated with the Shingon sect of Buddhism, which played a crucial role in the cultural and spiritual development of the period. The Negoro lacquer technique, from which the tray takes its name, originated in this temple complex. This method involves the application of red lacquer over black lacquer, with wear from handling over time revealing intricate patterns that combine both layers.

The Negoro temple was heavily involved in the political and military events of the late Muromachi period. The temple became a stronghold with considerable military and economic power. Its soldiers, known for their skill with matchlock rifles, played pivotal roles in key conflicts, such as assisting Oda Nobunaga during the Ishiyama Hongan-ji War. Despite this, the temple was burned down in 1585 during Toyotomi Hideyoshi’s campaign against Kii Province. Objects such as this tray survived, bearing witness to a storied past.

The Negoro lacquer technique, used in the production of this tray, held symbolic and artistic significance in Japanese culture. The combination of red and black lacquer was not only aesthetically appealing but also reflected the spiritual duality prevalent in Buddhist teachings. Red, the dominant color, often symbolized life and vitality, while black represented depth and the unknowable aspects of existence. Objects like this tray, used for ceremonial purposes, would have had both a functional and a ritualistic role within monastic communities.

This tray was constructed using a base of wood, over which several layers of lacquer were applied. The Negoro technique involved the careful layering of red lacquer atop a black undercoat, which was then gradually revealed through the natural wear of handling. Its dimensions — a diameter of 39.4 cm (15 1/2 in.) and a height of 11.5 cm (4 1/2 in.) — make it a medium-sized ceremonial object, likely used for serving offerings or ritual food.

This tray likely originated from the Negoro-ji temple complex or a similar religious site where the Negoro technique was prevalent. It would have been used by monks or religious officials in ceremonial contexts. After the destruction of much of Negoro-ji in 1585, objects like this one were dispersed, possibly ending up in the hands of private collectors. Eventually, the tray made its way to the Cleveland Museum of Art, where it now resides as part of their Japanese art collection.