Rectangular Box with Scene of a Reception

17th century

Not on view

The scene represented on this box is the arrival of guests at a grand reception. The host and hostess are seated in the reception hall at the upper right of the composition, which resembles that of a traditional Chinese-style horizontal or hanging scroll. A member of the household stands before the hosts, awaiting a messenger carrying a pink calling card. The guests, who are about to cross a stone bridge, are shown in the lower part of the painting. On their way to the reception, the guests will pass a group of musicians playing behind silk curtains. Most of the musical instruments they use are displayed in the case nearby.

Artwork Details

Title: Rectangular Box with Scene of a Reception
Period: late Ming (1368–1644) or early Qing (1644–1911) dynasty
Date: 17th century
Culture: China
Medium: Red lacquer painted with lacquer and oil colors; basketry panels
Dimensions: H. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm); W. 10 1/4 in. (26 cm); L. 27 3/4 in. (70.5 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Object Number: 2015.500.1.62a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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