Tiered box composed of three layers with dragon en precious objects c. 1680 - 1720

Curator: At the Rijksmuseum, we have a fascinating ceramic piece known as "Tiered box composed of three layers with dragon en precious objects." It's believed to date back to sometime between 1680 and 1720, a lovely glimpse into the artistic sensibilities of the period. Editor: Oh, I like it. It has a soothing simplicity to it, all soft blues and gentle curves on a bright white surface. I wonder what it felt like to hold something like this? Curator: Absolutely. Objects like these often provide valuable insight into the global trade dynamics of the 17th and 18th centuries. Pieces decorated in this style showcase the Qing dynasty aesthetic and the Dutch East India Company's influence. The precious objects could imply status and prosperity. Editor: Speaking of prosperity, there's that wonderfully fierce dragon swirling around on the lid – seems almost paradoxical to depict power and grace using such gentle blue hues, like a secret superpower. Was blue a popular color back then? Curator: Well, cobalt blue pigment from Persia held considerable value, particularly as Chinese porcelain became highly sought after in Europe. Blue decoration was definitely desirable, symbolizing access to trade networks and artistic skill. Also, dragon symbolism has been important in Asian art for ages, usually meaning imperial strength, heavenly power and great luck. Editor: It’s interesting to think that something so small held so much cultural significance. So what stories do you think this tiered box could tell about identity, gender, race, or politics? I can imagine this was used for important ceremonies with some rich symbolism layered through each tier, but I could be wrong. Curator: These types of objects open us up to ask what value systems have been privileged or neglected in the shaping of the history of the time. The art history here reflects the time when colonizing forces exerted its presence across othered territories. While something pretty on the surface, that should not prevent us from interrogating the ethics behind its production and consumption. Editor: Indeed, the layered, multifaceted identities and realities that it touched can allow for reflection and discourse. Thank you for that insight. Curator: My pleasure, it's been thought-provoking, and certainly changed the way I’ll be viewing things going forward.