Museum Updates
Ancient black lacquered storage box shimmers with mother-of-pearl decorations
Updated: Mar 30, 2026
China Bound
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At first glance, this Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) storage box appears as understated as its surface finished in black lacquer. But step closer, you can see it shimmer with the iridescent beauty of delicate inlaid mother-of-pearl.
On the lid, two elders sit in a quiet conversation in a bamboo grove. Their robes and expressions are rendered with remarkable precision. Encircling the box, intricate floral scrolls "bloom" in vibrant hues, showcasing the extraordinary craftsmanship of mother-of-pearl inlay at its finest. Housed in the Zhejiang Provincial Museum, this piece is a testament to the elegance and artistry of Ming lacquerware.
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