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Covered box for seal paste
Covered box for seal paste

Covered box for seal paste

Place of OriginChina
Date1723-1735
DynastyQing dynasty, Reign of the Yongzheng emperor (1723-1735)
MaterialsPorcelain with overglaze multicolor decoration
DimensionsH. 1 in x W. 2 1/4 in
Credit LineThe Avery Brundage Collection
Object numberB60P2323
DepartmentChinese Art
ClassificationsCeramics
On View
On view
LocationGallery 17
More Information

This box is designed to store seal paste.  Seal paste, which contains cinnabar in various shades of red, is used for the seals often found on paintings or calligraphies. A seal is pressed into the paste to pick up the color and then is stamped onto the work. The oily paste is kept in covered boxes to retain moisture and to prevent accidents.