A finely crafted lidded porcelain box by Meissen, dating from the early 20th century. The domed lid is decorated with a rare black enamel depiction of a five-clawed imperial dragon chasing the flaming pearl, surrounded by stylized red clouds. The decoration continues on the lower part of the box. This piece belongs to Meissen’s celebrated “Chinesischer Drache” series, inspired by Chinese imperial iconography and developed into one of the factory’s most recognizable patterns. The so-called “Black Ming Dragon” version is among the least common and most collectible variants of the design, typically produced in red or green. The box is marked underneath with the blue crossed swords of Meissen, with a red decorator’s number to the interior. The quality of painting and ...