Chinese Red Lacquer Box
Date1850-1899
Object NameBox
Mediumlacquer, silk, paper
ClassificationsApplied Art
DimensionsOverall: Height: 4.4 cm, Length: 12.7 cm, Base: 8.8 cm
AcquisitionPresented in 1968.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS000867
About MeThis red lacquer box contains a flower made of silk and silvered paper.Lacquerware originated in China at the beginning of the 4th century B.C. It is made from the sap of the native tree Rhus Vernicifera, which produces a varnish that is used either on its own or applied to a number of media including wood, fabric, bronze, and porcelain.
As well as being resistant to heat and water this type of lacquer is also hard enough to carve. Each decorative piece demonstrates great skill and patience, as it could take up to two years to complete. Carved lacquer is made from many layers, sometimes up to 300, which had to be dried after each application. Often layers would alternate in colour, creating a depth to the design.
Many of these decorative lacquer objects were made and imported into Europe at the end of the 17th century.
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