Dish with dragon, Ming dynasty (1368–1644), Wanli period (1573–1620), dated 1595. Polychrome lacquer with filled-in and engraved gold decoration. H. 3.2 cm; Diam. 5.9 cm. Gift of Florence and Herbert Irving, 2015, 2015.500.1.53. © 2000–2024 The Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Several complex techniques were used to create this design of a dragon flying above rocks and waves. The dragon was first carved and then filled with gold and colored lacquers. The resulting decoration, which extended above the surface of the dish, was ground down until it was flush and then polished to an even finish.