Artwork Page for Box in Form of Lotus Leaf (lid)

Details / Information for Box in Form of Lotus Leaf (lid)

Box in Form of Lotus Leaf (lid)

1700s

China, Qing dynasty

(1644-1911)
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Medium
ivory
Measurements
Overall: 5.1 cm (2 in.)
Credit Line
Gift of Lois Clarke 1970.137.2.b
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

Inside each box is a lotus pond and two swimming ducks carved in high relief.

Description

In the Qing dynasty (1644–1911), luxury items became more affordable to larger parts of the society, including women, merchants, and literati in non-official positions. Imperial patronage and a growing urban population encouraged consumption of luxury goods and local craftmanship. This fine grained, light yellow ivory carved the the shape of a lotus leaf illustrates the superb carving skills and the creative mind of the talented artisan who sought clients on a competitive market.
A shallow ivory box lid is carved into a creamy-white lotus leaf with scalloped edges and radiating ribs. At the center, a raised relief depicts a smaller lotus leaf and a closed bud on stems. The bud points toward the upper right, while the stems curve toward the left. Small chips line the irregular rim, emphasizing the object's aged, organic form.

Box in Form of Lotus Leaf (lid)

1700s

China, Qing dynasty (1644-1911)

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