Dish with the Three Friends of Winter

16th–early 17th century

Not on view

Pine needles, bamboo leaves, and plum blossoms fill the center of this deeply carved dish. Plum blossoms, which are among the first flowers of early spring, are often associated in Chinese art with evergreen pine and bamboo. Together, the trio are known as the “Three Friends of Winter,” a motif symbolizing how a lofty individual perseveres even in the harshest environment.

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

明晚期剔紅歲寒三友圖漆盤
Title: Dish with the Three Friends of Winter
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Date: 16th–early 17th century
Culture: China
Medium: Carved brown lacquer
Dimensions: H. 1 1/4 in. (3.2 cm); W. 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm); L. 6 3/8 in. (16.2 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Object Number: 2015.500.1.38
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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