A very rare embellished silver-gilt and enamel 'longevity' peach-shaped box and cover. Late Qianlong-Jiaqing, two impressed Chinese maker's marks. Photo courtesy Bonhams

Naturalistically worked in three horizontal sections in the form of a flattened peach, the cover with leafy tree branches issuing peaches and flowers inset with rock crystal, red and blue embellishments including rubies, sapphires and paste beads, the lower two layers opening on opposite sides to reveal a pair of hidden 'butterfly doors' compartments in resemblance to taijisymbols, all beautifully decorated with bands of flowers, butterflies, bats, shou characters and twin keyfret scrolls in low relief, the details highlighted in gilt or turquoise enamel grounds. 7.2cm wide; 7.4cm deep; 4.6cm high. Estimate HK$ 200,000 - 300,000 (€19,000 - 29,000)

No similar peach-shaped box seems to have been published, although this type of piece was very widely commissioned for an auspicious occasion as a type of gift to Beijing from a Canton official. The quality of the decoration is extremely high by Canton standards. The remarkable shape, divided into three hinged horizontal sections, is unparalleled in Canton silver and of an elaboration apparently never found in smaller boxes produced by silversmiths at the period. 

Bonhams. THE SPEELMAN COLLECTION OF CHINESE 'IMPERIAL TRIBUTE' SNUFF BOXES. Hong Kong. 24 Nov 2013 13:00 CST