Shaped in the form of a five-petalled prunus-blossom, the central scene on the cover carved to depict a scholar with two attendants by the side of a lake flanked by a pavilion, all set amongst rocks and gnarled trees.
A carved cinnabar lacquer pentafoil box and cover (Qianlong period, 1736-1795)
Description
Dimensions: 25.4 cm wide
Provenance:
An English private collection
Shaped in the form of a five-petalled prunus-blossom, the central scene on the cover carved to depict a scholar with two attendants by the side of a lake flanked by a pavilion, all set amongst rocks and gnarled trees. The sides of the box are carved with oblong cartouches depicting flowers set on a diamond diaper ground. The interior of the box and cover applied with black lacquer.
Carved lacquer craftsmanship reached its peak during the Qianlong reign, representing one of the most intricate and labour-intensive techniques in lacquerware production. This process demanded exceptional skill and patience from the finest artisans of the time.
The detailed carving on this box and cover is comparable to a slightly larger pentafoil-shaped box and cover sold at Christie’s, Hong Kong on 28 May 2014, lot 3511 and illustrated in Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art, Littleton & Hennessy Asian Art, London, 2023, no. 34. A similar example was sold at Christie’s, London, 8 November 2011, lot 262.
