Bantamwork
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'''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
[[Category:Decorative arts]]
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