Fine Black Lacquer Document Box

This early 20th-century document box likely once sat on the writing desk of a Qing-dynasty scholar, used to store and protect his works of fine calligraphy and traditional landscape painting. The box is cloaked in layers of fine black lacquer, impeccably smoothed with a lustrous finish. The gently arched lid bears traces of delicate paintings of censers, vases, flowers, and other offerings. The box interior is coated in a rich red lacquer and the front is adorned with a brass pull in the form of a bat, a symbol of happiness.