Lien (casket), circular, standing on three bears legs, black terra cotta, covered with white slip; painted in red and black design of dragons and clouds. These hill jars usually decorated with bands of relief instead of painting. Examples of Han painting are rare.

Lian (Cosmetic Box), 2nd century

Unknown artist, expand_more
On View in Gallery 204expand_more

Created exclusively for burial, this large cosmetic box is made in imitation of painted lacquer cosmetic cases of the same shape. The grey body has been covered with a white slip (largely missing) over which fine geometric patterns and dragons pursuing a flaming pearl have been painted in red, yellow, and black pigments.

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Details
Title
Lian (Cosmetic Box)
Role
Artist
Accession Number
32.54.1a,b
Curator Approved

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Lien (casket), circular, standing on three bears legs, black terra cotta, covered with white slip; painted in red and black design of dragons and clouds. These hill jars usually decorated with bands of relief instead of painting. Examples of Han painting are rare.