17th Century Black Lacquer Bone Inlaid Stationary Box

A wonderful 17th century Chinese decorated wooden lacquer stationary box.

The outside is deep black lacquer with crazing due to age with a red lacquer inside.  Detailed figures and scenic decorations are inlaid into the black lacquer, depicting dignitaries and attendants among hillside village.  Handmade brass hardware accents the box in the form of a latch and hinges.  The hardware is attached in such a way where as no pins or metal protrude through the lacquer, leaving a very clean look and feel.

Similar references:

• British Museum (see 'Chinese and Associated Lacquer from the Garner Collection')
• Christie's London - March 2007
• "Treasures of the Chinese Scholar" (pg. 148)
• Cultural-China.com http://arts.cultural-china.com/en/40Arts1523.html