Chinese Wood Lidded Bowl

Flat round box with a quilted grid of fine lines on its lid.

This lidded lacquered wood bowl is from China, and dates to the 19th century. Lacquered wood has been made in China for many centuries, and the resin coating protects the wooden core while giving it a deep, smooth finish. Shallow circular box in warm brown, with a lid covered in a ruled grid pattern. A narrow decorative pattern runs near the base, and the finish is rubbed and worn at the edges. Gold flecks show here and there. It is 2 inches high and 9 in diameter.

Plain face, tidy lines, and a slightly weathered smile.