An art material since the late Neolithic period (c. 3200–2200 BCE), Chinese lacquer is a natural varnish made from the sap of the lacquer tree that, when exposed to air, forms a plastic coat, resistant to water, acid, or alkaline corrosion. During the period from the Southern Song to the late Qing dynasties (12th–19th centuries), Chinese craftsmen explored the decorative properties of lacquer and enriched the technique by carving, incising, and gilding the surface, as well as inlaying such materials as mother-of-pearl. The carved lacquer is particularly noteworthy; built up to an ample thickness using various colored layers, then carved, the three-dimensional design exposes the play of colors between layers.

With more than 30 examples dating from the 12th to the 19th centuries, this exhibition celebrates the MIA’s important collection of Chinese lacquer. It presents the wide variety of forms, styles, and techniques of lacquer works. It also showcases an interesting array of themes in decoration, rooted in contemporary Chinese culture.