Bantamwork

Bantamwork in 18th century England signified a particular style of export lacquerware which was cut into a layer of gesso and then lacquered in colors.

History

By the mid 17th century, trade with China and Japan had flourished in Europe. Oriental curiosities included lacquered cabinets and screens. The beautiful lacquer and ornamentation were highly prized. The Chinese lacquer was known as "Coromandel" or "bantomwork".

Oriental Process

The sap of the Rhus vernicifera tree, indigenous to China, was used on the pieces. Once the sap had dried, it could be applied in coats, forming a hard crust. This crust could be carved in relief. Color could be added to the sap, usually red, black and aubergine, to add variety to the pieces.

European Process

True Oriental lacquer could not be produced in Europe, because the Rhus vernicifera tree was not grown in Europe. An imitation based on shellac made from insect secretions was developed. This was known as "japanning". Jappanning, using white, blue and green as well as the traditional colors, is used still today.

References

* Miller's Antiques Encyclopedia: Antiques Encyclopedia by Judith Miller, Mitchell Beazley, 2005, Sterling Publishing Company, Inc. ISBN 1845331508