Double Longevity 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. This luxurious gilt hat box dates to the early-mid 20th century and would have belonged to an individual of rank and nobility. The hat box was crafted with two separate compartments to accommodate both a conical summer hat and a round winter cap. Dense with symbolism, the eight-sided box is finished with darkly lacquered hide that has been richly decorated with gold linework. Delicately painted white cranes soar amid pine tree branches, potent symbols of longevity and strength of character. The sculptural box is a fantastic collector's item and a statement addition to the home.