Canton Export Black Lacquer Sewing Box - Ca 1830's

This gilt black lacquer chinoiserie sewing box is in excellent condition. Made in the early 19th Century. Decorated in delicate gilt and black lacquer, is made in the typical form with brass swan neck handles. It comes complete with original contents, a removable inner compartment, and a front sliding drawer and accompanying key. 

This style of chinoiserie was made in Canton for export to wealthy members of the British Georgian & American upper class in the Qing dynasty. This intricate and detailed work was made for export to Britain when Chinoiserie was all the rage in the early 19th century.

These pieces are fragile pieces of history and are usually found damaged especially the tops, however, the condition of this piece is outstanding. This sewing box has been checked over in our workshop and small restorations made to stop the aging process.

Export jewelry cabinets, games boxes & tea caddies were also made. A sewing table with a similar border design dated circa 1835 can be found at the Peabody Essex Museum of Salem and Colour Plate 100 of the below book.

References:
- Similar examples and further information can be found in The Decorative Arts of The China Trade by Crossman.
- A sewing table with an identical border design dated circa 1835 can be found at the Peabody Essex Museum of Salem and Colour Plate 100 of the below book. 

From China

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