Huanghuali Picnic Box

The basic form of this two-tiered box with handle has remained unchanged for 1,000 years. Stacked boxes were commonly used as portable containers for food or scholar's objects. Finely made of precious and extinct Huanghauli wood, this example is particularly desirable. Huanghuali is revered for its magnificent grain, often associated with flowing water and floating cloud patterns. This beautifully crafted box is elegant and understated. The top level has a camphor tray within that is held snugly in place when the lid is secured. The vertical corners are wrapped with brass mounts that protected the box as servants carried it and they conceal the otherwise exposed dovetail corner joints. Delicate brass flowers finish the side rails.