Chinese Lacquerware

Red is the color most associated with Chinese lacquerware, although many other colors have been used, ranging from black through yellow. The different techniques employed in producing lacquerware result in a variety of differing effects.

The earliest and simplest use of lacquer in China was to paint designs on both utility and decorative objects. In the late Ming dynasty, lacquerware was ornamented with precious stones in mosaic patterns. Another method involved carving patterns on the surface of a piece of lacquerware and filling in the grooves with colored materials. Later, objects were coated with dozens of layers of lacquer and patterns were carved into the surface. This technique was developed to the point where layers of different colors would be revealed on carving.

Pictured are fruit bowls from the Chien Lung reign period of the Ching dynasty, by which time the art form had reached its zenith. The three-dimensional effect is achieved by carving and building out in relief form. Such pieces were popular in the Ching court, where they are believed to have been mainly used for decorative purposes.

Chinese Lacquerware.