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Box with Geometric Designs

late 17th century
Not on view
The five distinct geometric patterns on this box are composed of extraordinarily small, thin fragments of pearl shell. This is a refined version of the technique of inlaying mother-of-pearl into a black lacquer surface that was developed in the twelfth century. Fragments of pearl shell were sometimes tinted or painted on the back to enhance their natural colors, such as pink and green.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 清 黑漆嵌螺鈿幾何紋盒
  • Title: Box with Geometric Designs
  • Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
  • Date: late 17th century
  • Culture: China
  • Medium: Black lacquer with mother-of-pearl inlay
  • Dimensions: H. 1 1/8 in. (2.9 cm); Diam. 2 3/4 in. (7 cm)
  • Classification: Lacquer
  • Credit Line: Edward C. Moore Collection, Bequest of Edward C. Moore, 1891
  • Object Number: 91.1.672
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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