Pair of Qianlong Period Qing Dynasty Gilt Bronze Rectangular Treasure Boxes with Relief Dragon and Phoenix Cloud Motifs (18th Century Imperial Court Decorative Boxes)

拍品描述

Dimensions: Each box is approximately 15.2 cm (6.0 inches, 0.50 ft) long and 11 cm (4.3 inches, 0.36 ft) high; the pair weighs a total of 5143 grams; 18th-century Qing Dynasty Qianlong period court bronze. Condition and Provenance: Well-preserved, a complete pair, depicting a dragon and phoenix in harmony. The structure is robust, the gilding is well-preserved, the high-relief details are clear, and the surface exhibits a natural, antique patina; Provenance: Private collection in New York, USA, titled "Dragon and Phoenix in Harmony". The boxes are classic rectangular with lids, and the base is square, decorated with a meander pattern. The robust bronze body, exquisite proportions, and elegant surface treatment demonstrate the superb craftsmanship of Qing Dynasty court decoration. The entire surface is decorated with fine gilded relief, the delicate background highlighting the raised decoration and creating rich contrasts of light and shadow. The upper edge is decorated with flowing, curving floral patterns, with graceful lines and a blooming flower at the center. The dragon box features a majestic, high-relief dragon, its head held high, scales meticulously detailed, claws sharp, surrounded by dynamic clouds, exuding imperial grandeur. The phoenix box depicts an elegant phoenix, wings outstretched, tail feathers flowing, surrounded by auspicious clouds, perfectly complementing the dragon box's design. Both boxes continue this theme on their tops, adorned with the same cloud-dragon and cloud-phoenix motifs, while the sides are decorated with scrolling floral patterns and precious flower designs. These silver boxes, crafted from solid bronze and embellished with engraving and gilding, showcase a perfect combination of casting, engraving, and gilding techniques, a testament to exquisite craftsmanship. Traditionally used to store seals, jade, jewelry, scrolls, and other precious items, these boxes served both a practical and ceremonial function in elegant interior spaces. The boxes are decorated with dragon, phoenix, cloud, and floral patterns, symbolizing prosperity, harmony, and good fortune, making them outstanding representatives of Qing Dynasty metal decoration craftsmanship.

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