Unfolding stories: the Dutch Tribute and West Lake kuancai, so-called Coromandel, lacquer screen

Abstract

"A monograph dedicated to a rare and extraordinary kuancai folding screen produced during the Kangxi period (1662-1722). It is considered by many as one of the most important kuancai folding screens so far recorded, certainly the most important example of the few recorded depicting European figures. Illustrating the diversity and iconographic richness found in kuancai lacquer, it depicts two intricate and masterfully executed scenes of The Dutch Tribute and the West Lake in Hangzhou. Featuring articles by three scholars, this publication seeks to cover what is currently known about kuancai lacquer, the present screen, its historical context and the parallels with Japanese folding screens, which, from the 15th century onward, often also depicted maritime trade and foreign merchants -- including the Chinese, Portuguese, and later, the Dutch."-- Publisher's website, viewed December 17, 2025