Red Lacquer Hide Pillow

Dated to the late 19th century, this fine Chinese headrest is hand-crafted of lacquered hide atop an elongated bamboo frame. Used while sleeping like a modern pillow, the headrest has a pliable design that enabled contour comfort - quite luxurious for the time. Brushed atop an under layer of black lacquer, the bright cinnabar red lacquer finish has worn gently from years of use for a richly worn finish with subtle crazing. Brushed with gold pigments, each end is decorated with stylized flowers and accompanying poetry.

Minor restoration to splits along seams.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.

Additional Dimensions:
Pillow: 10.5"W x 4.5"D x 4.5"H
Mount Plate: 10"W x 4"D