나전 칠 모란 넝쿨 무늬 상자 조선|螺鈿漆牡丹唐草文箱子 朝鮮|Box with decoration of peony scrolls

Art Historical Context

This exquisite small box, crafted during Korea's Joseon dynasty (2–1910) in the 15th–16th century, showcases the pinnacle of *najeon chil*—lacquerware inlaid with shimmering mother-of-pearl Measuring just under 4 inches square and three-quarters of an inch high, it was likely used to store precious cosmetics, jewelry, or seals, reflecting the refined tastes of the elite. The surface blooms with intricate peony scroll motifs, their lush vines and layered petals rendered in delicate shell fragments that catch the light like iridescent jewels. The *najeon* technique, a hallmark of Joseon craftsm...