Object

Bowl with dragon and phoenix design
  • Carved lacquer
  • China, Qing dynasty, Qianlong period (r.1735–1796)
  • Collection of National Museum of China
This bowl, crafted using the ticai technique, features layers of red, green, and other colored lacquer carved to reveal intricate designs. Six circular medallions alternate between a dragon and a phoenix, interspersed with carvings of various objects. The inscription indicates the production date as Qianlong period. Modeled after a ‘dragon and phoenix design lacquer bowl’ from the Jiajing period (1522–1566) of the Ming dynasty, this bowl is an elaborate piece that showcases a bright and smooth lacquer texture and vibrant colors in accordance with the Qing-imperial quality.