Canton Export Black Lacquer Sewing Box - Qing Dynasty - 19th Century

This exceptional Canton export black lacquer sewing box dates to the 19th century, during the Qing dynasty, and was produced in Guangzhou (Canton) specifically for export to Europe. Objects of this type were made for wealthy British Georgian households at a time when chinoiserie was highly fashionable, prized for its exotic imagery, fine craftsmanship, and lustrous lacquer surfaces.

The box is richly decorated in gilt and polychrome lacquer against a deep black ground, with scenes of flowering branches, trees, birds, and garden motifs wrapping around all sides. The hinged lid opens to reveal a beautifully painted interior panel featuring bamboo, flowers, and foliage, executed with the same delicacy and attention to detail as the exterior. The overall decoration reflects the refined aesthetic developed by Canton workshops for the export market.

Raised on distinctive paw-shaped feet, the box also retains its original side handles, allowing it to be carried easily. Inside, a fitted and compartmentalised interior provides storage for sewing implements, jewellery, or small personal items. Canton export pieces are often found today with significant damage, particularly to the lid, making the condition of this example especially notable. The box has been carefully checked in our workshop, with minor stabilising restorations carried out to preserve the lacquer and slow the ageing process.

• Origin: Canton (Guangzhou), China
• Date: 19th century, Qing dynasty
• Materials: Lacquered wood with gilt and polychrome decoration
• Features: Paw-shaped feet; side carrying handles; hinged lid with painted bamboo interior; fitted internal compartments
• Decoration: Trees, flowers, birds, and garden scenes in gilt lacquer
• Condition: Outstanding condition for its age, with minor professional restorations to stabilise the lacquer
• Dimensions: W40 x D28 x H16.5 cm