Tray

An item at Metropolitan Museum of Art

Combinations of white, amber, and green glazes, typically known as sancai or “three-colored” wares, were first developed in China in the late seventh century, and were used primarily for funerary goods. The bright colors, clear tones, and superior bonding power of this technique were achieved by firing twice, first at high temperature to achieve a hard pottery body, and then at low temperature, after the glazes were applied, to bring out the vibrant colors. The shape and medallion decor of this tray were derived from metalwork prototypes. The deep, intaglio lines of the floral patterns, impressed onto the surface of the still-soft clay by stamps, helped to contain the glaze in the intended areas. The pearl-like white spots on the rim were created by the use of wax or clay resists, a technique commonly employed in dyed textiles.

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