Box with pommel scroll design

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The box’s base bears an incised mark of Yang Mao (active 14th century), one of the most famous lacquer masters in China. Historical texts indicate that Yang specialized in carved red lacquer, but no further detailed archival records survive to attribute any particular work to this artist. The skillful carving and design of this box suggest it was from the time of the artist, if not by his hand.

Asian Art

An exhibit at Metropolitan Museum of Art

The Met's collection of Asian art—more than 35,000 objects, ranging in date from the third millennium B.C. to the twenty-first century—is one of the largest and most comprehensive in the world. Each of the many civilizations of Asia is represented by outstanding works, providing an unrivaled experience of the artistic traditions of nearly half the world.

Metropolitan Museum of Art