Writing Box (Suzuribako) with Woodcutter 19th century

This 19th-century "Writing Box (Suzuribako) with Woodcutter" by Ogata Kōrin depicts a woodcutter carrying a heavy load of branches on his back. The box is made of black lacquer and features intricate details, including gold leaf and mother-of-pearl inlays. The scene is characteristic of Kōrin's style, which is known for its bold compositions and use of vivid colors. The woodcutter is depicted in a dynamic pose, highlighting the laborious nature of his work, a theme often explored in Japanese art. This piece, currently housed at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, exemplifies Kōrin's mastery of the intricate art of Japanese lacquerwork.