Box with pommel scroll design 16th century China A close examination of this box indicates that three layers of red lacquer were interspersed among the predominant black. The yellow background brings additional color to the vessel, which was used to hold documents. The object illustrates the taste for vibrant aesthetic combinations that characterizes the late Ming period.. Box with pommel scroll design. China. 16th century. Carved black and red lacquer. Ming dynasty (1368-1644). Lacquer