A Three Colour Carved Lacquer Box And Cover, Qianlong Mark And Of The Period (1736-1795)

of cylindrical form, decorated in layers of cinnabar, green and yellow lacquer, the cover depicting scenes of scholars within gardens and terraces, variously discussing a Daoist scroll and playing weiqi, surrounded by clusters of tall swaying bamboo branches, pine and plantain, the side panels with scholars and their attendants walking and resting amongst trees and bridges, Qianlong six-character incised gilt mark to interior base of box, a four-character inscription reading 'Si Chang Bao He', (precious box of the four charms), to the interior cover -- 6¾in. (17cm.) diam - Price Realized: £55,250 ($87,571)

Christie's. Chinese Art. 7 November 2008. London, South Kensington. Image Christie's Ltd 2008. www.christies.com