LARGE CINNABAR LACQUER 'DRAGON' BOX AND COVER QING DYNASTY

A LARGE QING CARVED CINNABAR LACQUER 'DRAGON AND PHOENIX' CIRCULAR BOX AND COVER WITH CHARACTER MARK 

The cover of this box is remarkable both for the range of lacquer colors employed and the fine detail of the carved decoration. The large character in the center of the top of this box means spring (chun) and is equated with youth and longevity. It sits between two dragons flying in clouds; below are rainbows radiating from a bowl overflowing with treasures. Incorporated into the character is a round panel in which the God of Longevity reads under a pine tree, with a servant and a deer in the background. Around the curved sides are four panels separated from one another by Buddhist treasures on a background of diamond patterns. The panels illustrate scenes of old scholars celebrating spring. With the assistance of young pupils, they set up parties by lotus lakes for the enjoyment of music, wine, reading, and flower arrangement. The treasures that separate these scenes include the wheel, flaming pearl, ingot, coral, horn, coin, wish-granting wand (ruyi), and more—they are an integral part of the celebration, giving the design a sumptuous effect.