Artwork Page for Round Box with Lid

Details / Information for Round Box with Lid

Round Box with Lid

c. 1760–70

France

View all records in artwork set
Medium
tortoiseshell decorated in red lacquer with inlays of gold, silver, and brass wire; contains a portrait miniature
Measurements
Diameter: 2.3 x 6.3 cm (7/8 x 2 1/2 in.)
Credit Line
In memory of Ruth Probala 1988.48
Public Domain
You can copy, modify, and distribute this work, all without asking permission. Learn more about CMA's Open Access Initiative.
Location
Not on view
Print

Description

This small lacquer box, made in France during the 1700s, references China in that it imitates Chinese material and craftmanship such as red lacquer and celadon.

This round box with an inlaid key pattern (an interlocking geometric motif ), emulates the bright vermilion color of Chinese red lacquer, typical of Suzhou lacquer ware. The key pattern is reminiscent of the so-called Chinese thunder pattern (leiwen).
A round tortoiseshell and lacquer box features a flat lid and vibrant red exterior. Three decorative bands in gold and silver leaf adorn the object: one encircling the lid's top edge, another on its side, and a third on the base. Each band displays a repeating meander pattern of interlocking right-angled lines, bordered by rows of small, pointed leaf-like trefoils. The intricate metallic ornamentation contrasts sharply against the smooth red surface.

Round Box with Lid

c. 1760–70

France

See Also

Visually Similar by AI

Shop the CMA Store

Shop More Art

Contact Us

The information about this object, including provenance, may not be currently accurate. If you notice a mistake or have additional information about this object, please fill out the appropriate request form linked below:

Update or Correct Artwork Information

Imagery or Rights for Non-Open-Access Artworks

Report a Website Issue

Further Questions About This Artwork