Box - Wood, lacquer - Wedding box

Wedding chest in turtle and bat motifs
China, Republican Era (1912 – 1949)
Dimensions: 10 cm (height) × 24 cm (width) × 17 cm (depth)
Hardwood with reddish patina (hongmu / rosewood), etched and cut brass, red lacquer

This storage chest, of exquisite finesse, in hardwood with a warm patina presents a rich array of fittings and corner plates in finely engraved brass, stamped and cut. This type of chest was not merely utilitarian storage; it was a ritualized and highly symbolic object, designed to accompany the bride to her new home and to be kept there for life.

The front face is dominated by an imposing bilobed lock plate, engraved with scrolling motifs, radiating lines, and beaded borders. The central locking pin, pivoting on an upper hinge, fits into a carved round boss featuring a tortoise. In traditional Chinese symbolism, the tortoise is the ultimate symbol of longevity, stability, and celestial protection.

The sides of the chest are adorned with cut plates depicting a bat with outstretched wings. By homophone with the word for happiness, this animal is one of the most common auspicious motifs, embodying blessing and prosperity.

The corners of the lid and body are reinforced by cut corner brackets in the form of stylized cloud shapes (ruyi) and engraved with scrolling motifs. The lid is attached to the rear by two broad hinged bands. The upper portion also features engraved plaques with the geometric svastika motif, evoking an infinity of blessings.

The interior with a single drawer is entirely covered with vermilion red lacquer, a traditional, sober protective finish emblematic of precious chests and nuptial dowry chests intended to preserve personal items or jewelry.

A very beautiful object, well preserved.
Provenance: Kanaka The Collection, Portugal

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