Details
A RARE CARVED TIXI LACQUER STEMCUP
MING DYNASTY

The deep bowl with slightly everted rim is supported on a vertical stem with a splayed foot, crisply carved with layers of shiny black and red lacquer with lappet pendants on the exterior and a band of ruyi heads linked through the stem and base of the cup, the interior and base coated in brown lacquer (chip to foot restuck)
3 7/8 in. (8.5 cm) diam.

Lot Essay

A pair of slightly smaller stemcups with similar designs formerly in the collection of Sir Harry Garner, was exhibited in the British Museum, and illustrated by H. Garner, Chinese and Associated Lacquer from the Garner Collection, 1973, no. 13, pl. 6b. They are fitted with metal liners and discs enclosing the foot, bear incised inscriptions yu shi (imperial edict) and are dated to the 16th century. Another stemcup, also dated to the 16th century is illustrated by R. Scott, Lacquer: An International History and Collector's Guide, Marlborough, 1984, p. 51.

More from IMPORTANT CHINESE LACQUER, CERAMICS AND WORKS OF ART

View All
View All