Tray, restored in 1528

明朝嵌硆淁漆器糊絏枝箷泚地橵光纏枝絏紋檉方托盤

Lacquer styles seemed to change after 1400, moving from plain simplicity to more elaborate compositions. This development is particularly evident in examples with lustrous mother-of-pearl inlays, as seen in this tray. A camellia branch at the center is set within borders of alternating brocade patterns and floral scrolls. The lacquer maker probably found inspiration in similar designs in paintings and textiles at the time.