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Stationery box decorated with peony scrolls

15th–16th century
Not on view
Scholarly men collected and used stationery boxes like this to hold paper and writing implements. A rare example of early Joseon lacquer, the box’s ornate design of peony blossoms and acanthus-like leaves illustrates the expansion of sophisticated Goryeo-dynasty techniques and traditions. Peony blossoms of similar form can be found on inlaid buncheong ware; the stylized acanthus-like leaves are distinctive to this example and to the few other extant boxes of its type, which are nearly identical.

Artwork Details

Object Information
  • 나전 칠 모란 넝쿨 무늬 서류함 조선
  • 螺鈿漆牡丹唐草文書類函 朝鮮
  • Title: Stationery box decorated with peony scrolls
  • Period: Joseon dynasty (1392–1910)
  • Date: 15th–16th century
  • Culture: Korea
  • Medium: Lacquer inlaid with mother-of-pearl; brass fittings
  • Dimensions: H. 3 5/8 in. (9.2 cm); W. 9 1/2 in. (24.1 cm); L. 14 3/8 in. (36.5 cm)
  • Classification: Lacquer
  • Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
  • Object Number: 2015.500.3.1a, b
  • Curatorial Department: Asian Art

Audio

Cover Image for 8507. Stationery Box with Decoration of Peony Scrolls

8507. Stationery Box with Decoration of Peony Scrolls

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