This is a Chinese traditional brush pot (bitong) crafted in carved red lacquer (cinnabar lacquer, Tihong). The exterior is deeply carved in relief with an intricate landscape scene depicting houses, trees, and natural scenery, a theme closely associated with Chinese literati aesthetics and scholarly life.

Cinnabar lacquer ware is created through the labor-intensive process of applying multiple layers of red lacquer, which are then carefully carved to reveal detailed designs. Such objects were highly valued as scholar’s desk implements, combining practical function with refined artistic expression.

The carving displays strong depth and rhythmic composition, with architectural and natural elements arranged in a continuous panoramic scene. The red lacquer surface shows age-related wear, consistent with traditional use and long-term preservation, enhancing its historical character.

Size:

Dia:  13.4cm 

Height: 14.6 cm