Antique Oriental Red Lacquer 3 Tier Wedding Food Carrier Hamper Basket C.1890

A beautiful antique East Asian three-tier red lacquered and painted wooden food carrier, dating to the late 19th or early 20th century, circa 1880–1920.

Traditionally used for transporting food, gifts and ceremonial offerings, these distinctive stacking carriers were associated with weddings, festivals, family celebrations and other important occasions.

This particularly attractive example retains its rich red painted finish, beautifully decorated with flowering branches, birds and foliage in muted gold, green and black tones. The fitted lid features a charming composition of birds amongst flowers, enclosed within a decorative border.

The three individually constructed wooden compartments fit neatly together within a substantial carrying frame, featuring black-painted supports and a beautifully bound horizontal handle.

Of particular interest are the hand-painted East Asian character inscriptions on both sides of the carrying frame. These may represent a traditional cyclical date and a workshop or maker’s inscription, although their precise interpretation remains unconfirmed.

The traditional wooden construction, aged surfaces and surviving decorative finish give the piece considerable character and historical appeal.

Very good antique condition overall, with expected age-related wear including rubbing to the painted decoration, minor chips to corners and edges, surface marks and natural wear to the interiors. The carrying handle remains strong and secure, and all three sections fit together correctly.

A substantial and highly decorative example of traditional East Asian folk art, with potential Chinese or Japanese origins, ideal for collectors of antique lacquerware, Oriental woodenware and historic ceremonial objects.

Length: Approximately 33cm

Overall height including handle: Approximately 37cm

Weight: 2,600g

Country of origin East Asian, Chinese or Japanese

Material Painted/lacquered wood

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.