Four Lobed Incense Box and Cover on Stand

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Chinese Four- Lobed Cinnabar Lacquer Incense Box and Cover on Stand

OwnerOwned by James Cromar Watt (Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)

DateMing Dynasty, 1522 - 1619

Object NameBox

Mediumlacquer, soapstone, jadeite and wood

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsOverall: Height: 18.9 cm, Width: 31.5 cm, Diameter: 23 cm

AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS024885

Keywords

About MeA four lobed Chinese cinnabar lacquer incense box with cover on a wooden stand. The box is carved with peonies around sides and mountain scene on the cover with figures in the foreground and inlaid with jadeite and soapstone sections. Peonies are an important flower in Chinese culture and symbolise peace.

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.

The most common colour of Chinese lacquerware is red. Known as cinnabar lacquer, the varnish is coloured with the quartz-like mineral cinnabar, which can vary in shade from brick red to a bright scarlet. True cinnabar has a high toxic mercury content, so was replaced by other natural and synthetic alternatives from the late 19th century onwards.

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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The decorative peonies on the sides are symbols of peace in Chinese culture.