Bottle-shaped vase

This vase is a prime example of Chinese cinnabar lacquer that was prevalent in the Ming and Qing eras. More than a hundred layers of red lacquer made of powdered mercury sulfide were applied to the surface of the wooden vase, then intricately carved to varying depths, revealing four relief scenes of figures in gardens separated by profuse floral scrolls and patterns. The rich layers of dark background give a sense of spatial recession and volume. The special shape of the bottle is reminiscent of a popular porcelain vase type, suggesting the influence of ceramic art on Chinese lacquer.