⑪SASAKI Ei, Box for tanzaku (calligraphy paper), “Morning in Oze” , maki-e with colored shell inlay

This piece evokes the scenery of a marshland, with seashells and gold glinting in the morning sun. Irokirigai is a mother-of-pearl inlay technique, in which metal leaf or paint is applied to fragments of shell from behind, and additional coloring is used to enhance color variation. The shells are often cut into simple shapes like rectangles and circles, to create appealing and regular patterns that are distinct from traditional raden (mother-of-pearl inlay). May this glimpse of morning in Oze inspire you to imagine the scenic splendor of Oze National Park, adorned with a rich variety of flowers throughout the year