The different types of lacquer: recognizing them

Typologies of different lacquers

Several types of lacquer exist, each with its own characteristics and estimates. Several are often linked to a particular country.

Carved lacquer: the finesse and depth of Chinese lacquer.

Carved lacquer is one of the most refined and emblematic forms of Chinese lacquer. Several layers are applied (up to 30 or 40) and sanded, before the whole is carved to reveal the lower layers.

For example, a rectangular box from the Jiaqing period fetched 50,000 euros. Its price was justified by the exceptional Baizi tu (Hundred Boys) decoration, its age and state of preservation. Conversely, a carved cinnabar lacquer bonbonnière fetched 80 euros at auction.

These objects, when antique or signed, are highly prized not only for their beauty but also for their symbolism, particularly in Chinese culture.

Mother-of-pearl inlaid lacquer

This technique involves cutting the mother-of-pearl into delicate shapes, which are then integrated into the lacquer to create intricate patterns, often inspired by nature, such as flowers or landscapes. For example, a mother-of-pearl-inlaid lacquer box from the Ming dynasty, adorned with detailed floral motifs, can be worth between 15,000 and 20,000 euros.

Makie lacquer, Japanese luxury

Makie is a Japanese technique in which gold or silver powder is applied to wet lacquer to create patterns. This technique is often used for luxury objects, from tea caddies to trays.

An exceptional box from a private collection recently sold for 35,000 euros at Bonhams, showcasing Japanese craftsmanship and aesthetics. Another example, a nashiji lacquer writing case decorated with hira makie and taka makie, dating from the Edo period, was estimated at between 12,000 and 15,000 euros.

Kintsugi, the art of repair

Kintsugi is an artistic practice that uses lacquer mixed with gold powder to repair broken objects, transforming imperfections into works of art. This art form has been used by Japanese tea masters since the 15th century.

For example, a 17th-century porcelain vase, meticulously repaired using this technique, sold at auction for 8,500 euros.

Vietnamese lacquer, Son mài: between modernity and tradition

The son mài technique is used in Vietnam by modern and contemporary artists. Lacquer is combined with mother-of-pearl, pigments, etc. A contemporary son mài lacquer painting can fetch auction prices of up to 700,000 euros. A panel by Tran Phuc Duyen fetched 377,000 euros at Millon.

Joseon lacquer in Korea

Korean lacquerware, especially during the Joseon dynasty (1392-1910), is famous for its intricate floral motifs and use of mother-of-pearl. Lacquer objects from this period are often adorned with delicate, refined motifs.

A casket from the Joseon dynasty fetched 12,500 euros, attracting collectors for its excellent condition and the quality of its workmanship.

Which type of lacquer is the most expensive?

Today, Vietnamese works by artists of the Hanoi school are the most expensive. Generally speaking, rare works in good condition have seen their prices rise in recent years. Works of medium to low quality have seen their prices fall.

• Chinese lacquerware is valued at up to 50,000 euros, but many objects sell for just a few hundred euros.

• Japanese lacquers, particularly Makie lacquers, are highly prized and regularly sell for several thousand euros.

• Vietnamese lacquerware is booming, with records reaching up to 900,000 euros (for a work by Pham Hau).