Cinnabar Lacquer Box Value Guide

Old Collection Lacquer Red Carved Jewelry Box with Premium ...
Cinnabar Lacquer Box
Estimated Value
$150 – $250
Period
1900-1940
Origin
China
Materials
Cinnabar lacquer, wood

This early 20th-century Chinese cinnabar lacquer box represents a centuries-old tradition of meticulous craftsmanship dating back to the Song Dynasty. Each piece is highly collectible due to the labor-intensive process of layering and hand-carving hardened red lacquer into intricate three-dimensional motifs.

What Is Cinnabar Lacquer Box Worth?

The typical price range for Cinnabar Lacquer Box is $150 - $250 based on recent sales. However, values can vary depending on the item's condition, rarity, and other factors such as:

  • Complexity and precision of the dragon and floral motifs, with higher detail commanding prices closer to $250.
  • Physical condition, specifically the absence of chips, cracks, or peeling in the brittle lacquer layers.
  • The number of lacquer layers visible in the carving depth, indicating the time and skill invested in production.
  • Overall size and the preservation of the original black lacquer interior.

How to Identify Cinnabar Lacquer Box?

  • Examine the depth of the carvings for sharp, crisp edges in the floral and dragon patterns characteristic of the 1900-1940 era.
  • Look for a dark, brownish-red hue typical of aged cinnabar rather than the bright, uniform orange of modern plastic imitations.
  • Check the interior and base for a black lacquer finish or exposed wood grain, which are common construction traits for this period.
  • Verify the weight; authentic cinnabar applied over wood has a distinct heft compared to lightweight resin reproductions.

History of Cinnabar Lacquer Box

Cinnabar lacquerware has a rich history in China, dating back to the Song dynasty. This art form involves applying numerous thin layers of cinnabar lacquer onto a base, then meticulously carving the hardened material to create three-dimensional designs. The process is incredibly time-consuming and requires immense skill, making each piece a work of art. These boxes were often used for storing precious items like jewelry, documents, or incense.

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