Lidded Box with Vegetal Scrolls

Place of OriginChina

Dateabout 700-750

Dimensions4 3/8 x 3 11/16 in.; H: 2 3/16 in.

MediumEarthenware

ClassificationCeramics

Credit LinePurchased with funds from the Libbey Endowment, Gift of Edward Drummond Libbey

Object number

1950.320A-B

Not on View

DescriptionThis is a two-part, rectangular earthenware box with a fitting lid. The object was created using molds. Its exterior surfaces feature molded decoration in low relief, depicting leaf medallions and scrolls. The box is covered in Tang Dynasty three-color (sancai) lead glazes, specifically glazed in brown, green and cream color. The low-fired glazes were applied and allowed to run during firing, a characteristic of the sancai technique.

Label TextThis small rectangular box exemplifies sancai, or “three-color” ware, from China’s Tang dynasty (618–907). Artisans applied brown, green, and creamy glazes to an earthenware body, letting the colors mingle and run during firing to create a flowing, painterly surface. Molded reliefs of leaves and scrolls add texture and depth to its design. Such boxes were not used in daily life. They belonged to a class of mingqi—“spirit objects” made for tombs of the elite—to accompany the dead in the afterlife. Likely meant to hold cosmetics or incense, it reflects the luxury, artistry, and cosmopolitan taste of Tang-period China.