Early 20th Century Lacquerware Container, kun-it, EUO22
The tradition of lacquerware is centuries old in Burma. This handsome container, referred to in Burmese as kun-it, is nearly a century old, and was made in Bagan, the centre of lacquerware production. Sap is drawn from the Melanorrhoeausitata tree found in North-eastern Burma to make the lacquer. Pigments such as ochre and indigo are added to produce the desired colour. A dozen or more coats are then applied to the object resulting in a beautiful lustre that is waterproof and very durable. The object is then deftly decorated with a fine metal point which is used to etch grooves that are then filled with coloured lacquer. The object is left to dry and then polished. This process is repeated several times and requires great skill, experience and time. This container consists of 2 bowls, lid and base and is decorated with a masterfully executed image of a parrot perched on a tree branch. It is in wonderful condition with only a small degree of cracking of the lacquer on the inside surface of the bowls.
Characteristics
Height: 8cm, 3.1 in
Diameter: 8cm, 3.1 in
Materials: bamboo, lacquer, pigment
Provenance: antique dealer, Bagan, Burma
Period: Early 20th century
Price: US$350
Read more about Burma
Read more about Lacquerware
