Lacquer Box, mid-late 20th Century
China
Lacquer and pigment; 3 1/8 x 12 3/8 in.
2014.9.…

Box with Inserts

ClassificationsContainers

Datemid-late 20th Century

Made AtChina, Asia

MediumWood, lacquer and pigment

Dimensions2014.9.8a - Box: 1 1/4 × 12 1/2 in. (3.2 × 31.8 cm)
2014.9.8b - Lid: 2 × 12 1/2 in. (5.1 × 31.8 cm)
2014.9.8c-i - Trays: 1 × 5 1/2 × 3 1/2 in. (2.5 × 14 × 8.9 cm)

Credit LineGift of Anne and Long Shung Shih

Object number2014.9.8a-i

DescriptionLacquer was and is a popular medium as it is a very durable material. It can be thought of as a natural plastic. This tough quality led to its wide-spread use, particularly in Asia. One such use was for boxes. Lacquer boxes were most often used for the storage of documents, gifts, incense, cosmetics, jewelry, hairpins or medicinal herbs and minerals. In the 18th and 19th centuries, boxes created for the storage of sewing, tea, implements and games were important trade items to consumers in Europe and the United States. As lacquer was used on many different objects, unique design techniques for the material also developed.

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