Painted Willow Hat Box From Shanxi - 19th Century

This beautifully timeworn painted willow hat box dates to the 19th century and originates from Shanxi province in northern China. Traditionally used for the storage of official hats worn by Chinese scholars and officials, these cylindrical containers were also employed to house ceremonial headwear reserved for important occasions and formal events.

Constructed from woven willow wood and reinforced with darkened wooden bands, the box is both lightweight and remarkably durable. The exterior displays hand-painted Chinese characters, once used as practical identifiers to denote ownership or contents, and now adding a striking graphic quality to the surface. Iron rings and fastenings further enhance its utilitarian character, while the rich patina speaks to decades of use.

This form of hat box was widely used across China and Japan and designed to be stacked, allowing multiple containers to be stored neatly in official residences or travelling chests. The removable lid fits snugly, protecting the contents while maintaining the clean, architectural silhouette.

Today, pieces such as this have found new life as decorative storage vessels or distinctive side tables, bringing an understated sense of history and texture to both contemporary and traditional interiors.

• Origin: Shanxi Province, China
• Date: 19th Century
• Materials: Willow wood with painted decoration and iron fittings
• Features: Hand-painted Chinese characters, removable lid, traditional stacking form
• Condition: Good antique condition with surface wear and patina consistent with age
• Dimensions: W56 x D56 x H59 cm