Chinese, Qing dynasty, Qianlong period
(1736–1795)
Dish with Emperor's Qianlong's Inscription
1774
red lacquer
1¼ x 5¾ in
3.18 x 14.61 cm
Arthur and Margaret Glasgow Fund
89.77
Decorated with the fine motif of chrysanthemum petals, this lacquerware is associated in shape and design with the monochrome ceramics produced in the Ming dynasty. It conveys the scholarly elite’s preference for elegance and simplicity. The center of the dish is incised with a poem by Emperor Qianlong, who praised the skill and talent of lacquer makers in Suzhou, the lacquer center where this dish was made.