East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. late 19th to early 20th century CE. A lacquered leather hat box for an official to store a precious hat of rank, with a brass clasp that could be outfitted with a small lock. Hats were worn throughout the year, so this may have stored the winter or summer hat. There were strict regulations for official's court dress which distinguished them from the rest of society. Hats and the boxes they were stored in were prized possessions and both became status symbols of the wealthy and high ranking officials. The surface is embossed and gilt with auspicious symbolic flowers, birds, peaches, gourds, bats, and butterflies, with a Size: 8.2" Diameter x 11" H (20.8 cm x 27.9 cm)

Provenance: private Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA collection; ex-Minerva Gallery; ex-Benjamin Vega, California, USA, acquired in 2006 to 2007; ex-Gene and Virginia George, brought to the USA from 1961 to 1966

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#177958

Fading and losses to gilt. Leather has some age related wear which is minor - scuffs and discoloration, otherwise intact and overall excellent condition. Dark patina on brass hinge and clasp.