A baitong-mounted zitan scholar's box - Qing Dynasty

Of elegant rectangular outline with a hinged cover, the edge of the cover and box with beaded border, the upright edges reinforced, the top corners mounted with ruyi shaped plates, with a circular escutcheon, and ruyi shaped lock plate, all in baitong, the sides with brass bail handles suspended from chrysanthemum-shaped washers, the wood of characteristic dark-brown colour with fine hair-like markings. 43cm (15 5/8in) long. Sold for HK$72,000 inclusive of Buyer's Premium

Footnote: 清 紫檀鑲白銅狀元箱

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Bonhams. Fine Chinese Ceramics, Works of Art and Paintings, 29 May 2008. Island Ballroom, Island Shangri-La Hong Kong Hotel, Central, Hong Kong