Tray, c. 1550
Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more
Red, green, and yellow carved lacquer (ticai)expand_more
Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more 2001.68.10
On View in Gallery 210expand_more
The lacquer foundation of this tray consists of yellow, green, and red colored layers. By carving down to varying depths the artisan was able to create a multi-color effect. Called ticai (carved colors), the technique had been available since Song (960-1279), but it wasn't until the Jiaqing reign (1522-66) that it became popular, reflecting perhaps the taste for colorful overglaze porcelain that marked this era. The interior of the tray is carved with two sinuous, five-claw dragons with horns, whiskers, and bushy tails. They confront a yin yang symbol set within a flaming shou (longevity) character. The two long sides depict two dragons in profile confronting a flaming pearl; the two short sides feature single dragons chasing the famous pearl of wisdom.
Details
- Title
- Tray
- Role
- Artist
- Accession Number
- 2001.68.10
- Curator Approved
This record has been reviewed by our curatorial staff but may be incomplete. These records are frequently revised and enhanced. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please email collectionsdata@artsmia.org.
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