Qianlong period, 1736–1795, China

height: 14 cm
width: 35.4 cm
length: 45.7 cm

The jardinières are rectangular in form with outward curving sides and a flared rim, supported on gilt bracket feet. The four sides are each inset with a rectangular cinnabar lacquer panel of the highest quality carving – depicting figures in landscapes and on pavilion terraces. The background, decorated in painted lacquer, illustrates lotus flowers and scrolling leaves amongst a stylised chain link design; this is outlined in gilt, and painted in dark blue, red and dark green against a rare lighter blue ground. The inside is plain, containing removable liners with handles.

similar examples
‘The Complete Collection of Chinese Art: Chinese Lacquerware’ Volume 6 (Qing dynasty), Fujian Meishu Publishing House, 1993 – page 93 illustrates a box that can be compared in terms of the lacquer technique, design and colours.

‘Masterpieces of Chinese Carved Lacquerware in the National Palace Museum’, Taipei, 1971 – plate 50: compare the carved panels on this jardinière for quality, form and subject matter.