Neolithic period (c. 5000 BCE)
traditional crafts
National Heritage
Southeast China
active
Chinese lacquer art involves applying multiple layers of sap from the lacquer tree (Toxicodendron vernicifluum) to objects, creating a hard, glossy, and waterproof surface. The craft dates back over 7,000 years to the Neolithic period. Techniques include carved lacquer (diaooi), inlaid gold and silver (pingtuo), and mother-of-pearl inlay (luodian). Lacquerware ranges from ritual vessels to furniture and decorative screens.
Skills & Techniques
Chinese Lacquer Art Techniques expand_more
The multi-step process of applying raw lacquer sap to create durable, glossy surfaces on wood, metal, or fabric.
Steps
- Prepare the base object (wood core, fabric, or metal)
- Apply a coarse cloth layer (zhi) over joints to prevent cracking
- Apply multiple thin coats of raw lacquer mixed with clay powder
- Sand each coat smooth after drying
- Apply decorative techniques: carving, gold inlay, or mother-of-pearl
- Apply final clear lacquer coat and polish
- Cure in a humidity-controlled chamber (70–80% humidity)
Tools
lacquer brush, sanding stone, carving knife, inlaying tools, humidity chamber
Materials
raw lacquer sap (qi), tung oil, pigments (cinnabar, orpiment), gold leaf, mother of pearl
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