Late 19th Century Chinese Painted Bamboo Rice Carrier Wedding Food Picnic Basket C.1890

Late 19th Century Chinese Painted Bamboo Rice Carrier Wedding Food Basket c.1890

A wonderfully decorative and characterful late 19th century Chinese tiered rice and food carrier, dating to the late Qing dynasty, circa 1890.

Traditionally constructed from wood and bamboo, the carrier comprises stacking removable compartments held within a tall arched bamboo carrying frame, with a bound hand grip and reinforced rims.

The exterior retains extensive original hand-painted decoration in black and gilt/gold tones against a warm reddish-brown ground.

Particularly attractive are the numerous traditional Chinese motifs appearing around the different sections, including pairs of fish or carp, birds, flowers, foliage and other naturalistic designs. The fitted lid is further decorated with a charming figural scene within a landscape.

Vertical Chinese calligraphy also appears on the carrying frame, adding further interest and authenticity to the piece.

Carriers of this general form were traditionally used for transporting rice, food, gifts and other provisions and are variously described today as Chinese rice carriers, food carriers, wedding baskets and ceremonial food baskets. Elaborately decorated examples could also be associated with festive and wedding gift-giving.

The construction is particularly appealing, retaining the irregularities expected from a genuinely hand-made antique object. The interiors and undersides reveal the traditional joined wooden construction, while the bamboo framework and numerous small fastenings demonstrate how these practical carriers were assembled.

A particularly attractive example with a wonderful aged surface and extensive surviving decoration. It would make an excellent decorative feature as well as an interesting piece of late Qing Chinese domestic and folk art.

Date: Circa 1890, late Qing dynasty

Origin: China

Material: Bamboo and wood with painted/gilt decoration

Dimensions:

Overall height to top of handle: 42 cm

Width: 24 cm

Weight: 1,711 g

Condition:

Good antique condition with considerable character and patina consistent with its age and original practical use. There is expected rubbing and loss to areas of the painted and gilt decoration, surface marking, scratches, staining and general age-related wear. There is also natural movement and shrinkage to some of the wooden components and wear around the rims, joints and fastenings.

These signs of age have been retained and form an important part of the appearance and authenticity of the piece. Please study the photographs carefully as they form an important part of the condition description.

A highly decorative late Qing Chinese rice/food carrier with excellent display appeal and particularly attractive surviving fish, bird and figural decoration.

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.