Early 19th Century Chinese Canton Export Black & Gilt Lacquer Figural Trinket Box C.1830

A charming early 19th-century Chinese export lacquer box, produced in Canton (Guangzhou) for the Western market during the late Jiaqing to early Daoguang period.

Of compact rectangular form with softly rounded corners, the box is constructed from wood and finished in deep black lacquer. The hinged lid is decorated with a traditional gilt figural scene depicting Chinese figures gathered around a table before pavilion architecture, surrounded by stylised landscape and garden detail.

The decoration is characteristic of Canton export lacquerware made for European and American buyers during the first half of the 19th century. The figures retain contrasting pale facial and hand details, while traces of the original gold decoration survive across the architecture, robes, furniture and surrounding scene.

The interior is simply finished in black lacquer without fitted compartments, suggesting use as a small personal, trinket or keepsake box rather than a larger games or sewing box.

The piece displays substantial age-related wear consistent with its approximately 190-year age, including rubbing and loss to the gilt decoration, surface craquelure, scratches, abrasions and small lacquer losses. There is a chip beside the rear hinge exposing the wooden substrate. The hinge remains present and functional.

Despite the wear, the surviving figural decoration retains considerable character and gives the box an attractive, genuinely aged appearance.

Origin: Canton (Guangzhou), China

Period: Late Jiaqing / early Daoguang

Date: circa 1820–1840

Listing year: 1830

Material: Black lacquered wood with gilt decoration

Length: approx. 10.5 cm

Width: approx. 7.5 cm

Height: approx. 4.5 cm

Weight: 103.7 g

Please examine all photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

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About CKB LTD.

CKB LTD. was formed in 2010 and operates as an independent dealer, with a focus on carefully selected works offered through private sale and online platforms.

The company emphasizes informed attribution, clear descriptions, and responsible market practice. Objects are evaluated through visual examination, comparative research, and reference to established art-historical frameworks, with attention to condition, authenticity, and context.

CKB LTD. works with private collectors, dealers, and international buyers, and conducts transactions in accordance with standard international art market conventions. Each item is offered as a collectible work of art, with transparency regarding condition and attribution, and with respect for the nature of historical objects.

Condition, Attribution & Authenticity Notice

This work is offered as an antique object based on visual examination and comparative stylistic analysis. All statements regarding age, origin, attribution, and period represent informed scholarly opinion and are not guarantees of absolute fact.

Condition descriptions are based on external observation only. The interior, underside of the base, and any internal cavities or consecration materials have not been examined. No technical analysis (including XRF, thermoluminescence, or metallurgical testing) has been performed.

As is typical with antique bronzes, minor casting irregularities, surface wear, rubbing to high points, oxidation, and age-related imperfections are present and should be expected. No visible repairs or restorations are observed from the available views; however, the absence of hidden restorations cannot be guaranteed.

All items are sold as is, and prospective buyers are encouraged to examine the photographs carefully and request additional information prior to purchase. By bidding or purchasing, the buyer acknowledges acceptance of the item?s condition and the nature of antique works.

International Buyers ? Important Information

This item is an antique work of art over 100 years old and is sold as a collectible object. Buyers are responsible for any import duties, VAT, GST, customs fees, or local taxes imposed by their country.

The seller does not provide CITES documentation, export permits, or cultural property certificates unless explicitly stated. Please verify import requirements with your local customs authority prior to purchase.

All shipments are professionally packed and fully insured. Title and risk pass to the buyer upon shipment.

This work is offered in accordance with standard international art market practices.