The timeless elegance of Chinese lacquer art
So-called Coromandel Lacquerware is a form of decorative art with roots in China, emerging around the mid-XNUMXth century. The name "Coromandel Lacquerware" comes from the eastern coast of India, a name given by the English due to the importation of these lacquerware from China to Europe in the XNUMXth and XNUMXth centuries, through ports Indian coastal areas.
These lacquered works enjoyed notable success in Europe in the 3th and 60th centuries, taking the form of cabinets and vast screens of impressive dimensions, sometimes reaching a height of XNUMX meters and a width of XNUMX centimeters per panel. Originally, these coins were offered in China as precious gifts for high dignitaries.
The technique used to create Coromandel Lacquers begins with the application of a thin layer of fabric to the wood, fixed securely using a vegetable glue. Then, the lacquer is applied in several superimposed layers. Finally, the pattern is painted and surrounded by deep grooves, often inspired by nature, mythology or everyday life.
These lacquered panels decorated the interiors of royal palaces, aristocratic residences and temples. They served as decorative screens as well as furniture coverings.
This art reached its peak between 1910 and 1930, particularly during the Art Deco period.
Today, Coromandel Lacquerware has become highly prized collector's item, testifying to the exceptional know-how of Chinese artisans.
Work put under the hammer in Monte-Carlo
CHINA, KANGXI PERIOD (1661-1722) DATED YEAR 1687 (YEAR OF DINGMAO)
Superb screen with ten leaves in Coromandel lacquer, finely decorated on one side with the arrival of a delegation near a palace, inside which there is a mandarin contemplating dancers and musicians. Nearby is a small lotus-flowered lake surrounded by young court ladies. The scene relates the reception given by General Guo Ziyi, famous for having saved the Tang Dynasty.
The perimeter is animated by dragons deployed among flowers and foliage scrolls.
The other side is finely carved with calligraphic motifs in xingshu, enhanced with gold, illustrating a poem written by the scholar Gong Zhang (1637-1695). On the left, there are also the names of the donors.
This screen is a commissioned piece made in honor of General Meng Wengjin.
Sheet size 208 x 50 cm
Sold for €45 excluding fees.