Impressive Ancient Tihong: An Elliptic Red Lacquerware Seal

Elliptic Red Lacquerware Seal

Red picking, or “Tihong,” is a celebrated Chinese lacquerware technique. This method features red as the primary hue, with artisans intricately carving through several paint layers to expose contrasting colors, thus forming exquisite patterns or text. It was particularly in vogue during the Ming and Qing dynasties.

The foundation of these pieces is usually wooden, meticulously coated with numerous lacquer layers, predominantly in red and black. The seal’s inscription at the base often serves as a key to its era and the value of its craftsmanship.

Tihong lacquerware is esteemed in Chinese art, with well-documented pieces fetching high auction prices.