Writing Box with a Scene from the “Butterflies” Chapter of The Tale of Genji
Not on view
This writing box forms a pair with document box 1981.243.1a–f.. The decoration on the lid continues the story of the sunny spring day depicted on the document box: cranes fly over the blossoming cherry and pine trees, while a boat on the shore waits for its passengers. The insides of both boxes are embellished with autumn grasses by a river. It refers to one of the poems Lady Murasaki composed during the boat party.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.