Carved Cinnabar Lacquer Jar with Lid Copper Core

This carved cinnabar lacquer jar features a detailed surface design, with floral and foliate motifs meticulously rendered across its body and lid. The vivid red lacquer is layered over a copper core, a technique that not only ensures durability but also allows for the precision carving that reveals the black underlayer, providing a striking contrast within the intricate design. The lid is topped with a finial, continuing the decorative theme in a cohesive manner.

The jar’s rounded form, combined with the carefully fitted lid, offers a balanced aesthetic that is both functional and decorative. The use of a copper core beneath the lacquer is significant, as it enhances the object’s structural integrity while supporting the application of multiple lacquer layers. This process, requiring careful attention to detail, results in a finish that is both visually engaging and enduring.

Period: 20th Century
Craftsmanship: Hand-carved cinnabar lacquer 
Technique: Carved floral and foliate motifs with contrasting black lacquer underlayers
Inclusions: Wooden stand for display

Dimensions:
Height (including stand): 18cm or 7 inches
Diameter: 15cm or 5.9 inches