The traditional Chinese art form that creates images by carving into hardened lacquer layers is carved lacquer.
Carved lacquer, often called diaoqi, begins with the application of many thin coats of lacquer to a prepared wood or textile base. After the layers build sufficient thickness, artisans carve through them to reveal colors beneath the surface. The resulting relief may show flowers, landscapes, dragons, figures, or auspicious symbols.
Red carved lacquer is particularly associated with the Ming and Qing dynasties, though the broader Chinese lacquer tradition is much older. Black, yellow, green, and other layers can be arranged below the surface to create multicolored patterns. The process is labor-intensive because the coating, drying, and carving stages require patience and control.
Carved lacquer should not be confused with lacquer painting or mother-of-pearl inlay. In carved lacquer, the decoration is produced primarily by cutting into accumulated lacquer layers, not by simply painting a surface or inserting shell.