small tray with square form on a short foot; central scene in circular frame of 3 scholars seated in a landscape playing a board game; floral patterns around edge; red lacquer

Square Dish, mid 16th century

Unknown artist, expand_more

Lobed and scalloped lacquer forms that evolved during the Yuan dynasty (1280-1368) remained popular throughout the Ming (1368-1644). In the center of this red lacquer eight-lobed square form dish are three scholars playing a board game known as Go, a pastime popular with the learned class and became a symbol in itself of this elite group and its values. Emanating outward are an eight-lobed design carved with sprigs of lingzhi fungus on a star-patterned background as well as an outer band of flowering plants.

Details
Title
Square Dish
Role
Artist
Accession Number
2001.68.9
Curator Approved

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small tray with square form on a short foot; central scene in circular frame of 3 scholars seated in a landscape playing a board game; floral patterns around edge; red lacquer