Chinese carved lacquer ware probably dates back to the Tang Dynasty (618-907). As noted in the Treatise on Lacquer Decoration by an artisan of the Ming Dynasty, "Tang lacquer ware was done on smooth boards using a vermilion color. "Special lacquer ware workshops were set up in the Ming, producing pieces distinguished for bold, simple lines and rich colors. Qing Dynasty works, on the other hand, is known for its detailed designs and elaborate composition.

The Jingzhai Workshop, established in 1901 in Beijing, worked for many years in the Qing style. Over the past 40 years or so, the craftsmen there have begun to experiment with deep relief carving, hollowing and three-dimensional techniques. More than 20 colors are now used, a great change from the traditional four. A handful of factories in the Beijing area, with a combined work force of 20,000, produce carved lacquer ware-both traditional items like jars, boxes writing articles, dishes and personal adornments, as well as prize-winning artistic creations.