Circular Cinnabar Plate with a slightly flared lip and shallow draft. Cinnabar is made of mercuric sulfide which is a chief ingredient used in Taoist tinctures of Outer Alchemy. Carved from hundreds thin layers of Vermillion red-orange lacquer, in shallow vessel form, wide broad cavetto tapered gracefully toward lipped rim, raised on narrow footed base. The masterful carving depicts an amalgamation of elaborate vines supporting magnificent peony blooms. The Peony is known as the queen of flowers as well as being considered a symbol of love, affection, riches, honor, and feminine beauty. The Cinnabar is smooth to the touch and is free of cracks or damage. Deep red color gives off a waxy sheen as the light dapples across its surface. The underside carved with gilt fine script characters. Dimensions: 1-1/2" H x 13-7/8" Diam.