Chinese Lacquerware: Carved Art and Cinnabar Finish

Chinese lacquerware is one of the oldest and most technically sophisticated crafts in the world. Lacquer — a natural resin from the lacquer tree — is applied in multiple layers to create surfaces of extraordinary beauty and durability. The technique, developed over three thousand years, produces objects that can last for centuries.

Lacquer Production

Lacquer is harvested by tapping the bark of the lacquer tree (Rhus verniciflua), producing a milky sap that darkens to black. The sap is applied in thin layers, each dried and polished before the next. A single piece may require dozens of layers over months or years. The dried lacquer is harder than wood and waterproof.

Types of Lacquerware

Chinese lacquerware includes: carved lacquer (雕漆, diaoqi), with layers carved to reveal colors beneath; cinnabar lacquer (朱漆, zhuqi), red lacquer polished to a mirror shine; and "qiangjin" (嵌金), with gold dust embedded in the lacquer. The finest pieces are valued as treasures.