Dish
Unknown Artist
18th century
Medium
Carnelian and white agate
Dimensions
H. 1 5/8 in. (4.1 cm); W. 5 1/4 in. (13.3 cm); D. 4 1/4 in. (10.8 cm)
Classification
Hardstone
Culture
China
Department
Asian Art
Museum
Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York, NY
Credit
Gift of Heber R. Bishop, 1902
Accession Number
02.18.865
Art Historical Context
This exquisite 18th-century Chinese dish crafted from carnelian and white ag, showcases the masterful hardstone carving techniques of imperial workshops during the Qing dynasty. Measuring just 1⅝ inches high, 5¼ inches wide, and 4¼ inches deep, its petite oval form belies the monumental skill required to shape and inlay these durable semiprecious stones. The vibrant red-orange carnelian contrasts beautifully against the creamy white agate, creating luminous, jewel-like effect that highlights the lapidary's precision in polishing and fitting the materials without visible seams. In Chinese cult...