This vintage Chinese cinnabar lacquer Quatrefoil box is a unique and handmade collectible piece originating from China. The intricate figurine scene painted on the lid depicts traditional Chinese culture, showcasing the craftsmanship and artistry of Chinese artistry.
Key Features & Material
Medium: Carved red lacquer over a dark (black/brown) lacquer interior and base. Traditional cinnabar lacquer is made by applying dozens to hundreds of thin layers of sap from the Rhus verniciflua tree mixed with red cinnabar pigment, which is then painstakingly hand-carved once cured.
Iconography (Lid Scene): Features a narrative scene depicting two armed figures or warriors on horseback engaged in combat or an equestrian pursuit amidst a landscape of pine trees and rocks. The central scene is set against geometric diaper patterns (star and square geometric carved backgrounds representing land and sky).
Borders & Motifs: The central scene is encircled by a classic key-fret border (leiwen). The side lobes feature reserve panels carved with floral sprays (such as peonies or chrysanthemums) set against fine textured diaper grounds.
Interior & Base: The interior and underside of the base are finished in smooth black lacquer, which is typical for authentic Chinese lacquerware pieces.
Form & Construction
Shape: A four-lobed lobed/begonia-leaf contour (haitang xing).
Measurements: At 9" \times 8" \times 4", this is a substantial carved presentation or sweetmeat box (often used historically for dried fruits, tea cakes, or trinkets).
Age & Origin Considerations
Period Style: The style pays homage to late Ming (16th–17th century) and Qing Dynasty (Qianlong period, 18th century) imperial carved lacquer traditions, which heavily featured equestrian/warrior scenes, key-fret borders, and dense diaper ground work.
Production Context: Depending on the depth of the carving, layer density, and material (carved tree sap lacquer vs. resin composite in modern reproductions):
Late Qing to Republic Period (Late 19th to early 20th century): High-quality hand-carved pieces with fine wooden or bronze cores underneath and deep, sharp relief lines.
Mid-to-Late 20th Century: Many carved lacquer boxes were produced for the export and collector markets in Beijing and Shanghai continuing traditional techniques.
Measuring 4 inches in height, this box is a beautiful representation of Chinese culture and a valuable addition to any collection of Asian artifacts.
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