In one of the most famous legends of the East Asian cultural sphere, a humble carp not only forges against the torrent of a waterfall but, in a final surge crests it. The fish is transformed into a powerful dragon as a reward, its tale a metaphor for courage, perseverance and achievement. Whilst Shori 昇鯉 translates literally as ascending carp in an explicit reference, the term also means success, an example of phonetic wordplay.
Royal Selangor’s limited edition pewter sculpture, a three-dimensional interpretation of an ink painting depicting the classic legend, is made even more extraordinary with the exquisite tones and nuances of Japanese lacquer applied by the acclaimed atelier Zohiko.
Lacquerware specialist Zohiko has been renowned for works of exceptional quality and beauty since 1661. Based in Japan’s cultural capital Kyoto, the venerated house is an acknowledged master in the maki-e technique of incorporating gold and silver dust into lacquer. Zohiko’s creations continue to be highly esteemed and sought after at the highest levels.