This marquetry cabinet by furniture maker John Cederquist attests to the continuing vitality of the American studio craft tradition in the 21st century.
Drawing on the art of origami and, in the case of this "kosode" cabinet, Japanese apparel, Cederquist references traditional folding practices in which three dimensional forms emerge from flat materials.
Only by interacting with the cabinet and breaking the plane of illusion does one discover the drawers and compartments concealed within. The inlaid imagery from this cabinet was inspired by an exhibition of Japanese propaganda textiles from World War II.
Over the past eighteen months, generous donations have enabled the High to embark on a critical building block for sharing the Museum's over 15,000 works of art with our public; we have started to digitize the collection using the latest technology and techniques. We are experimenting with 360 degree imaging and taking updated high resolution photographs that include relevant details.
Our goal is to continue to expand the visual representation of our vast holdings to engage you – our public – in the wonders of exploring our collection, providing access to our works of art online and in new ways in the galleries.