1920's Chinese Republic red lacquer cinnabar lidded box with tray

1920's Chinese Republic red lacquer cinnabar lidded box with under tray. Beautifully carved with village landscape top, dragons to the sides and a tessellated border.

Carved lacquer "彫漆" (JP: Choshitsu) is a lacquer technique outstanding developed in China. In the Han dynasty, "堆漆" (Piled Lacquer or JP: Tsuishitsu) was conceived to form reliefs by repeatedly applying lacquer. This technique continued to develop during the Tang and Song dynasties, adding carving: lacquer was repeatedly covered in multiple layers until it was thick enough to be sculpted and carved. Using red lacquer it is called "剔紅" (JP: Tsuishu), with black lacquer it is called "剔黒" (JP: Tsuikoku). If different colours of lacquer are applied in different layers, then cutting through them would reveal the contrast in colour.

385 g
tray - 17.5 x 15.5 x 2 cm
box - 12.5 x 10.5 x 6 cm

Excellent antique condition. Wear appropriate to age and use.