Minneapolis Institute of Art

Document box with processional scene

China

Date

Wanli period

Medium

Black lacquer with “white brass” inlay on wood

Department

Asian Art

Institution

Minneapolis Institute of Art

The lid of this lacquered document box is inlaid with a lively scene of figures gathered at a noble residence, where a mounted military official has just arrived. The horse, shown at the lower left, signals rank, authority, and formal movement, marking the visitor’s status upon entering the estate. Such imagery reflects elite social rituals of the Ming period, when horses conveyed officials and dignitaries during ceremonial visits, betrothals, or diplomatic exchanges. Rendered in contrasting black lacquer and silver-toned “white brass, ” the scene emphasizes controlled procession and social hierarchy, underscoring the horse’s role as a vehicle of prestige and official presence. China, Asia

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