Antique Lacquerware Kun-It | Asian Antiques

Decorated Lacquerware Kun-It BLW11

Referred to in Burmese as kun-it, this antique lacquerware box is from Bagan, Burma. Kun-it or betel box is an indispensable item of hospitality in a Burmese household. Interlocking designs which create an attractive framework for other motifs are popular in Burmese decorative art. This piece is incised with one of the most popular patterns referred to as ku-nan-kan-byat (Yunnan semi-circle design).

On this antique lacquerware kun-it, the outlines are expressed in black on a red-orange background with very fine rows of circular lines and fine dots. The center of the lid bears a detailed floral motif while the under-surface is decorated with Burmese script. This kun-it has one tray in addition to the main box as shown in the photos.

Expected wear is present on the exterior of this kun-it including minor surface cracks consistent with its age as shown in the photos.

Characteristics
Height: 21cm, 8.5 in
Diameter: 21cm, 8.3 in
Provenance: Antique Dealer, Bagan
Period: Late 19th century

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