This lacquerware vessel has seen considerable use and there are minor chips and cracks present as illustrated in the photos, particularly the base. This is quite normal for lacquer boxes of this age that were in regular use.
To make lacquer containers, sap is drawn from the Melanorrhoeausitata tree found in North-eastern Burma. Pigments such as ochre, cinnabar, orpiment and indigo are added and mixed to achieve the desired colour. A dozen or more coats are then applied to the base of the object (which may be bamboo or soft wood) resulting in a beautiful lustre that is waterproof and very durable. The object is left to dry and then polished. This process is repeated several times and requires great skill, experience and time.
Characteristics
Height: 36cm, 14 in
Width: 25cm, 10 in
Depth: 19.5cm, 7.7 in
Materials: jackfruit wood, lacquer
Provenance: Burmese antique dealer
Period: Early 20th century
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