A Chinese wood, leather, and lacquer box. Artistic style and design is indicative of the Qing Empire, specifically the Daoguang Era (1820s-1850s) based on cloud frame and illustrative style, with Miao Jin gilt ink artistic style. Top shows a painting, depicting what is likely an imperial scene. An Emperor or major court official is seated on a judge’s throne, and is accompanied by attendants. Senior generals flank either side; likely a historical or literary scene, but one not immediately identified; an ascent to and judgment in heaven has also been proposed as an interpretation. Front includes the text of the poem ‘To Wang Lun,’ by the celebrated Tang poet Li Bai (c. 701-762), reading (translated) “I, Li Bai, sit in a boat about to go / When suddenly on shore your farewell songs overflow / However deep the Lake of Peach Blossoms may be, / It’s not so deep, O Wang Lun, as your love for me.” Calligraphy is seal script Side shows images of flowers and bats. 26×21.5×21.5 inches.
Condition
Lock is missing. Crack runs along back face of box.
