Red Lacquer Bowl and Cover on Stand
OwnerOwned by
James Cromar Watt
(Aberdeen, Scotland, 1862 - 1940)
Object NameBowl
Mediumlacquer, wood
ClassificationsApplied Art
AcquisitionJames Cromar Watt Bequest, 1941.
LocationView by Appointment - Aberdeen Treasure Hub
Object numberABDMS024898
About MeThe fabulous decoration depicts five-claw dragons chasing the flaming pearl, carved in relief against a patterned ground. In China dragons are a symbol of authority, strength, wisdom, goodness and, by association, the Emperor.Only items belonging or made for the emperor had the symbol of the five clawed dragon - all other dragons having four claws.
Lacquer was made from the resin of the lacquer tree built up slowly in thin layers. Hardened and polished in between each layer, it took around two years before the piece was ready to be carved.
James Cromar Watt
James Cromar Watt
Ming Dynasty, Yongle Period, 1402 - 1424
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty Qianlong/Jiaqing Period, 1736 - 1820
James Cromar Watt
Qing Dynasty, 18th - 19th century
James Cromar Watt
James Cromar Watt
Ming Dynasty, 15th - 16th century
