Luxury Embodied and Artistic Exchange: Japanese Lacquer in the Dutch Golden Age

Abstract

This paper conducts an in-depth exploration of the luxury concept encapsulated within Japanese lacquer during the Dutch Golden Age and its profound implications in cross-cultural exchanges. Through a detailed analysis of the trade history, wherein the Dutch East India Company (VOC) played a pivotal role in introducing Japanese lacquer to the Netherlands, its appearances in paintings that influenced Dutch art, and the emergence of imitations due to its high value, the multi-faceted nature of Japanese lacquer as a luxury item is revealed. In the 17th century, the advanced nautical technology of the Netherlands enabled global trade, and Japanese lacquer, with its exquisite craftsmanship and rarity, became a symbol of wealth and status. The VOC dominated the trade, providing customized lacquer for the aristocracy and using it in diplomatic exchanges. In paintings, its diverse styles led to cultural fusion and artistic innovation. The high price led to Dutch imitations, attesting to its luxury status. Overall, Japanese lacquer was a key luxury symbol, impacting Dutch society, art, and promoting cultural exchange, offering valuable insights into 17th-century Europe-Asia cultural interactions.