Presentation Box Decorated with Auspicious Emblems
1744-1779
Physical Qualities
Carved red, black and brown laquer and black lacquer over wood, 4 1/2 x 12 in. (11.4 x 30.5 cm.)
Credit Line
Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Epstein, and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Nevel in Memory of their Mother, Nettie Epstein
Object Number
1956.154
A large character for “spring” (chun) decorates this showy box, together with
the God of Longevity, Shou Lao, seated with a deer beneath a pine tree. Also
pictured is a large basket containing such treasures as coral branches, rhinoceros
horns, cash, swastikas (wan) symbolizing a thousand years, ingots, scrolls,
and an endless knot. Additional small scenes on the side of the box depict sages
and their attendants in landscape settings. Boxes such as this were often given
as birthday or New Year’s gifts. In 1758, the Qianlong emperor placed an order
for 12 boxes of this design to convey wishes for wealth, long life, and happiness
as epitomized by the ideal state of eternal spring.
The Baltimore Museum of Art by gift, 1956; Mr. and Mrs. Alvin Epstein, and Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Nevel
