Artwork Page for Foliate-Shaped Tray with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay

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Foliate-Shaped Tray with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay

late 1400s–early 1500s

Korea, Joseon dynasty

(1392–1910)
Medium
Inlaid abalone shells on black lacquer ground, applied with red lacquer on the interior
Measurements
width: 44.1 cm (17 3/8 in.)
Credit Line
Sundry Art - Miscellaneous Fund 2026.3
Public Domain
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Location
Not on view
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Did You Know?

This tray’s intricately decorated surface was created through a labor-intensive inlay technique employing thin, precisely cut abalone shell.

Description

Since the Goryeo dynasty, Korean mother-of-pearl lacquerware has been admired for its refinement, though few early examples survive. This tray, datable to the late 1400s or early 1500s, is exceptional for both rarity and condition. Its foliate form, peony vine motif, and intricate lattice border—originally derived from Goryeo-period decorative arts—are exquisitely reinterpreted through the refined craftsmanship of early Joseon artisans.
A scalloped, shallow lacquer tray sits on a low, lobed base. Swirling vines and leaves inlaid with iridescent abalone shell cover the interior, glinting with pink and green against the dark surface. Along the raised rim, a repeating geometric pattern of overlapping circles forms a shimmering grid. From our viewpoint, the petal-shaped vessel radiates color across the black and deep red lacquer, following the curves of its ornate, lobed form.

Foliate-Shaped Tray with Mother-of-Pearl Inlay

late 1400s–early 1500s

Korea, Joseon dynasty (1392–1910)

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