Pair of Negoro Lacquer Candlesticks

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Negoro ware, associated with the Negoro Temple in Wakayama prefecture, is characterized by a strong wooden core, a highly functional form, and the layered application of black and red lacquer. In the medieval period, Negoro utensils and vessels were used primarily by monks residing in Buddhist monasteries and priests of Shinto shrines, as well as by aristocrats and high-ranking warriors. Candlesticks are rare among Negoro lacquers. These were probably originally placed before a Buddhist altar. The powerful curves of the base and the bamboo motif of the stem were formed on a lathe. Over years of use, the top layer of red lacquer has worn off, and the underlying black has become visible.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art