Late 20th Century Chinese Decorated Rice Measure

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The rice measure was a standard measure called a "dou", used to measure rice or grains. Merchants charge by the … Read more The rice measure was a standard measure called a "dou", used to measure rice or grains. Merchants charge by the "dou." It was a standard measure which was very convenient, with no need to weigh anymore, The accounting was done by the number of "dou" sold. When China modernized to the use of scales, there was a surplus of wooden dou. Some entrepreneur had a great idea of decorating the measure with bright colors and sold them in the furniture markets.

The grain measure was an utilitarian object so it was made to last. I was constructed with dovetailed joints and has an iron handle. In order to re-enforce the sides, large handmade staples were applied. Some grain measures retain their original finish, but many more did not age as well. In this case, the exterior surface has been repainted in bright colors. Sprays of green leaves are painted on a beige cartouche on every side, over a bright red ground. Once again, an old useful object has turned into a decorative piece that can be used as a container, for dry flowers, or a place to hold magazines or newspapers. See less