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China

Scroll Weight

Ming dynasty (1368–1644), 15th/16th century
Carved cinnabar lacquer
2.4 × 3.1 cm (0.9 × 1.2 in)

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● On view now — Gallery 134

Art Institute of Chicago, Chicago · verified July 2026

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FROM THE ART INSTITUTE OF CHICAGO’S CATALOG

This cinnabar lacquer scroll weight, used to stabilize traditional Chinese painted scrolls when unrolled for viewing, features a realistically carved design of bamboo, plum and pine growing near the rocks against an all-over floral background. These three plants are known as the Three Friends of Winter. As they thrive even in the harshness of winter, they have come to symbolize steadfastness, perseverance, and resilience – the ideal characteristics of a Chinese literati. The trio became a popular motif in Chinese art and literature.

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