Chinese Rectangular Cinnabar Lacquer Basket on Stand

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

DateQing Dynasty, Qianlong Period, 1736 - 1795

Object NameBasket

Mediumlacquer and wood

ClassificationsApplied Art

DimensionsOverall: Height: 20.8 cm, Width: 27 cm, Diameter: 19 cm

AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.

CopyrightOut of copyright - CC0

LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub

Object numberABDMS024892

Keywords

About MeA very fine rectangular red on black cinnabar lacquer basket, which is sitting on an intricately carved wooden stand. The basket has been carved and features peonies and figures in a landscape on all four of the sides. In Chinese culture the peony symbolises 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.