Small hand-carved green and gold lacquer pot. We have never seen this color combination before. The pot is decorated with Lotus flowers, symbol of Continuous Harmony. Even though it is modern, the carving is of a high standard not comparable to the lacquer wares produced in China nowadays. The art of carving lacquer is unique to China. Lacquer is the resin of a family of trees found throughout southern China. It is called ‘Cinnabar’ lacquer which refers to the use of powdered mercury sulfide as the primary colorant. The substructure of this carved pot is made of brass which is then covered in multiple (often thirty to thirty-five) layers of lacquer. When exposed to the air the lacquer dries and while still not completely hardened, it can be carved with a sharp knife. As soon as the lacquer is completely hardened it becomes a very tough natural plastic that is resistant to water and can withstand heat and certain acids. Parts which are not lacquered are covered with enamel. This pot was acquired in 1968 and dates from that period. Height including stand 19 cm. Height without stand 10.8 cm including lid. Height without lid 7.9 cm. Diameter pot 9 cm. Diameter base 5.2 cm.