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A short list of words that often appear in descriptions of Japanese art. For care terms, see the Glossary (08). Romaji Kanji Meaning hakogaki 箱書 Writing on a work's box: title, name, signature, seal tomobako 共箱 Original box inscribed by the maker kiwame 極め A written attribution by a later expert or successor kakitsuke 書付 An inscription by a tea master or authority rakkan 落款 Signature and seal on a painting or calligraphy mei 銘 A maker's signature on a craft object; also a poe

Many Japanese works arrive in a fitted wooden box, often of paulownia (kiri 桐) and tied with a flat cord (sanada-himo 真田紐). It is tempting to see it as packaging. In Japan, it is usually treated as part of the work. It records the work. An inscription by the maker (tomobako 共箱), or a later attribution by a successor or specialist, can be part of a work's history. See A Beginner's Guide to Box Inscriptions (03). It protects the work. A well-fitted box guards against knocks and

Japanese works are often kept in a fitted wooden box, and the writing on that box can be as interesting as the work inside. This guide explains what you are likely to see. It is an introduction for looking, not a method of authentication. The box inscription (hakogaki 箱書) Japanese reference works describe hakogaki as writing on the box that holds a painting, calligraphy or a craft object: usually a title or the name of the object, with a signature and a seal. It may be writte

In Japan, works of art have long been brought out, enjoyed for a time and put away again. That rhythm suits both the eye and the object. Choosing a place A stable surface, set back from edges and busy passages, is the first step. Avoid direct sun, radiators, fireplaces, air vents, kitchens, bathrooms and damp outside walls. Sudden changes in temperature and humidity are harder on most materials than steady conditions. How much light Museums treat light as a budget. The Smiths

Every material ages in its own way, and the most useful care is usually the least. This overview gathers the main points from our individual guides. Please follow the links for detail, and when in doubt, leave the piece as it is. Ceramics Physical force (knocks, drops, careless lifting) is the main risk to ceramics. Lift with both hands from below, never by a handle, spout or rim, and take off a lid before moving the body. Old repairs can be weaker than they look, and some ar