Engagement basket; China, c. 1900.

Engagement basket; China, c. 1900.
Gilt and partially gilded bamboo wood with mother-of-pearl inlay.
It has some flaws.
Measurements: 19 x 17 x 15 cm.
Engagement basket made of lacquered wood with mother-of-pearl appliques. The work stands out because of the gallonado body, divided in individual registers, decorated with ornamentation of vegetal character.
The technique of Chinese lacquer, an ancient art that dates back millennia in the history of Asia. Made from the resin of the lacquer tree, this technique combines patience, skill and a deep connection with nature. Lacquer-coated objects are characterized not only by their luster and polished surfaces, but also by their durability and resistance over time, attributes that have made them coveted treasures. From ornate chests to decorative screens, these pieces encapsulate stories, traditions and symbolism. Their intricate creation process, which includes meticulous layering and gilded or hand-painted details, elevates their value, transforming them into masterpieces that transcend the functional to become cultural relics of incalculable importance.