Rectangular box with pommel scrolls

first half of 14th century

Not on view

The pommel scroll is so-named because it resembles the shape of a Chinese sword pommel. This design is often seen in objects decorated with layers of contrasting colors of lacquer, particularly red and black. Found predominantly on ceramics, metalwork, and lacquer from the thirteenth century, there is no known explanation for the creation and popularity of this motif. However, it may have been inspired by the antiquarianism of the period, when motifs that were based on, or presumed to be based on, the Chinese Bronze Age were incorporated into the designs of many types of objects.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

元　雕漆剔犀劍環紋長方盒
Title: Rectangular box with pommel scrolls
Period: Yuan dynasty (1271–1368)
Date: first half of 14th century
Culture: China
Medium: Carved red and black lacquer (tixi)
Dimensions: H. 2 3/8 in. (6 cm); W. 4 5/8 in. (11.7 cm); L. 7 7/8 in. (20 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Object Number: 2015.500.1.1a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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