Box with lychees

16th century

Not on view

The English name for this sweet tropical fruit is derived from the Chinese lizhi. Lychees are understood to represent fertility and are also symbolic of love and romance. Small boxes of this type, used to hold incense, were also produced in metal and porcelain

Artwork Details

Overview

Provenance

Exhibition History

References

明中期雕漆剔紅荔枝紋漆盒
Title: Box with lychees
Period: Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Date: 16th century
Culture: China
Medium: Carved red and black lacquer
Dimensions: H. 1 1/2 in. (3.7 cm); Diam. 3 1/8 in. (7.9 cm)
Classification: Lacquer
Credit Line: Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015
Object Number: 2015.500.1.46a, b
Curatorial Department: Asian Art

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