Eight Immortals Hat Box

No self-respecting man in Qing-dynasty China would leave the house without some kind of hat. In fact, headgear was so central to social status that even the containers used to store one's hat were beautifully constructed.

Belonging to an individual of rank, this round box dates to the 19th century and would have been used to store the hat of a Qing-dynasty scholar-official. The box is beautifully finished with lacquered hide and gilt decoration of leafy vines and geometric meanders. The lid is painted with the accessories of the Eight Immortals of Taoism, together imparting a blessing of prosperity and longevity. The lacquer finish has gained a fantastic crackled texture from centuries of use.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.