A Very Fine Chinese Export Lacquer and Gilt Game Box

Qing dynasty (1644-1912), 19th century, octagonal shaped box, the cover is hand painted in red and gilt over black lacquer with stunning detail and care, the center scene of an elegant Chinese landscape is surrounded by a myriad of auspicious symbols, like squirrels with grapes, coin motifs, treasure motifs, everlasting knot, bats, and dragons chasing flaming pearls, the interior with seven shaped boxes and two stacked tiers of game trays all beautifully finished with black lacquer and painted in gilt with Chinese figures in scenic garden villas, raised on four gilt paw feet.

9 x 15 x 12 in.

From the Collection of a Gentleman, Fearrington, North Carolina

Very good estate condition; some scattered cracks to the lacquer; some nicks with loss to edges appropriate for age and use.