Large Chinese Black Lacquer Double Happiness Jewelry / Dowry Box / Wedding Chest With Mother Of Pearl Inlay

Amazing and larger than normal Vintage Chinese black lacquer Dowry Box / Wedding Chest / Jewelry Box with exquisite workmanship …
Amazing and larger than normal Vintage Chinese black lacquer Dowry Box / Wedding Chest / Jewelry Box with exquisite workmanship throughout An unusual top with large red Double Happiness symbols under clear lacquer and exquisite turtle pull on the front. Centre stone maybe a moonstone.
The front of this stunning piece has intricate mother of pearl inlay with brilliant iridescent qualities. The scene depicts so much it is hard to describe – willow trees over a lake, pagodas, marsh birds, herons, fish, perching birds, symbolic clouds and so much more.
All highly symbolic and fortuitous for the ‘event’ that it was intended for.

The workmanship in this piece is of a very high quality and must have taken a skilled artisan many many weeks to make. The surrounding borders are fine and delicate.

The chest opens: from the top downwards – 2 smaller drawers with 3 larger drawers underneath. The largest drawer is on the base of the chest with a pair of auspicious fish and birds on the front.
Each internal drawer has a lacquered double happiness character on the front as well as the ornate pull.
No signatures.
Mid to Third Quarter of 20th Century.
Condition is very good with expected minor wear and loss.
A beautiful piece that is a treasure itself. Makes a very nice gift or present.
Listed by East2West Furniture.
Length 14″, Depth 7″, H18″.

In China, turtles are sacred animals who are symbols of longevity, wisdom, and wealth.
The double fish brings good fortune of abundance and also good descendant’s luck. Many people regard the double fish as an auspicious sign that will ensure that all their descendants stay safe and strong also regard it as a protective symbol.