Painted Tiger & Mongoose Boxes From Inner Mongolia – 19th Century

This unusual 19th-century painted box from Inner Mongolia is decorated with traditional Buddhist imagery. A large fierce tiger-like creature dominates the front, its striped body extending across the upper section and continuing onto the lid.

Below are two mongooses seated on stands, shown with precious jewels. In Tibetan and Mongolian Buddhist art, the jewel-spitting mongoose is associated with wealth and abundance and is particularly connected with Jambhala, the Buddhist deity of wealth. Precious jewels can also symbolise the spiritual riches of Buddhist teachings.

The original painted surface has developed a rich, dark patina, with considerable wear from age and use adding to the character of the piece. The box retains its old metal clasp, while the interior provides a large storage space divided by a removable sliding shelf.

• Origin: Inner Mongolia
• Date: 19th century
• Materials: Wood, painted decoration, metal fittings
• Features: Painted tiger-like creature; pair of jewel-bearing mongooses; Buddhist symbolism; original metal clasp; large interior with removable sliding shelf
• Condition: Good antique condition with considerable wear, fading and losses to the original painted surface consistent with age and use
• Dimensions: W59.5 × D39.5 × H39 cm
• Weight: 12.2