diaqi

Diaqi, or Chinese carved lacquer, is a decorative art form where multiple layers of lacquer are applied to a base material, typically wood, bamboo, or cloth. The lacquer is derived from the sap of the Rhus vernicifera tree, indigenous to China and Korea.123

The process involves building up many thin layers of lacquer, often in different colors. Once the lacquer is thick and hard, it is meticulously carved with sharp tools to reveal the underlying colors in intricate designs. This technique requires immense precision, as mistakes cannot be corrected. Common colors include red, green, black, and purple. This art form was highly developed by the Warring States period and became a significant industry, with lacquer vessels rivaling bronzes in value.12