Chinese Red-Lacquered Box – Qing Dynasty, 19th Century

Chinese Red-Lacquered Box – Qing Dynasty, 19th Century

A rectangular Chinese box made of fir wood, attributed to the Qing Dynasty (1644–1912), featuring a deep-toned red lacquer finish and a surface that bears the marks of time and use.

The structure, characterized by clean lines and balanced proportions, includes a hinged lid—constructed from joined wooden planks—and a front metal latch with a distinctive four-lobed (quatrefoil) shape, mounted on a rectangular plate adorned with delicate geometric engravings. Two metal hinges are positioned on the back.

The red finish, which is irregular and worn in places, reveals the wood grain and underlying layers, lending the object a particularly expressive patina.

This piece is an example of a traditional Chinese container, where the sobriety of its construction is complemented by the bold color of the lacquer and the decorative quality of the metal hardware.

Period: Qing Dynasty, 19th–early 20th century (attributed)

Origin: China

Material: Fir wood with a red lacquer finish and metal hardware

Dimensions: 37 × 20 × 16 cm

Authenticity: Accompanied by a certificate from the YAKY brand, attesting to its authenticity and attribution to the Qing Dynasty.

Condition: Shows signs of wear, abrasions, scratches, and color variations consistent with the object’s age and history of use.