Oblong Polychrome Box with an Auspicious Motif

Qianlong period, Qing Dynasty
Height: 12.8cm
Length: 32.2cm
Width: 20.6cm

The oblong box is carved with checks in yellow, green and purple. Inside the hexagonal checks, there are such motifs as double dragon, bats, squirrels and small melons etc engraved, symbolizing the wishes for family prosperity like spreading melon-vines and for everlasting longevity and wealth. The inside and bottom of the box are coated with black lacquer.

The design of the box is regular yet free from sameness. The lacquer colors are simple, elegant and harmonious. The motifs are mostly created with straight carving techniques and the ornamental designs are deep set. It's a unique creation of carved lacquer ware made during Emperor Qianlong's reign of the Qing Dynasty.