Cinnabar: The Chinese Art of Carved Lacquer January 15, 2010

Cinnabar: The Chinese Art of Carved Lacquer
Through February 21, 2010
Although it is used in many Asian cultures, the art of carving lacquer is unique to China. Lacquer is the resin (or sap) of a family of trees (Rhus verniciflua) found throughout southern China. It is an amazing material that hardens when exposed to oxygen and becomes a natural plastic that is resistant to water and can withstand heat and certain acids. This exhibition, which celebrates the Museum's collection and includes significant loans from the Florence and Herbert Irving Collection, showcases approximately fifty examples dating from the thirteenth to the eighteenth century. It includes several recently acquired works as well as small boxes for holding incense or cosmetics and larger containers used for papers, scrolls, or presenting gifts. It also presents an important eighteenth-century screen that has recently been restored and is being displayed for the first time. View images from this exhibition.

Special exhibitions are free with admission. See all current exhibitions.

Official Website: http://www.metmuseum.org/now_at_the_met.htm?HomePageLink=nowatmet_r