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Born as the second son of Kyoto lacquer artist Nagahamaya Jihei in the late Edo period, Sano Chōkan (1794–1856) followed in his father’s footsteps, dedicating himself to the art of lacquer. He started studying lacquer techniques from his father at an early age. To cultivate his artistic sensibility, he also sought the guidance of master poets, studied from Confucian scholars, and engaged with tea connoisseurs. His dedication even led him to visit lacquer artists, including the esteemed master Nakamura Sōtetsu VII.
On February 24, 1925, a commemorative service was held for the 70th memorial of Chōkan and the 50th of his second son Sōzaburō, who was adopted into the Eiraku family, at Jōshū-ji Temple in Kyoto. On April 3, a commemorative exhibition of their works was held at the Imperial Gift Museum of Kyoto (now the Kyoto National Museum). This year marks a hundred years since that event. To once celebrateagain celebrate the achievements of Chōkan, this exhibition features his remarkable works.