Ancient Chinese Antique Wedding Basket, Wood and Bamboo, Octagonal

  

Magnificent traditional Chinese compartmented basket (wedding basket / dowry basket). 20th century (traditional Qing style). 38 cm (total height with handle) x 26 cm (width) x 26 cm (depth).

Superb piece of Asian folk art. This basket is made up of several levels and removable compartments in red lacquered wood and finely woven bamboo/rattan wickerwork. The top of the lid features a very beautiful engraved decoration showing a figure riding a mythological creature (Qilin or dragon-horse) amid clouds and vegetation. The large central wooden handle is richly carved with floral motifs and raised scrollwork.

It is reinforced with substantial fittings and corner braces in patinated brass/bronze, decorated with traditional motifs (including the Chinese cash coin symbol for prosperity). There is a Chinese character painted in black ink under one of the wooden elements. In good overall used condition with a magnificent original patina. Some damage and losses; everything is shown in the photos.