A rare, antique Chinese Imperial court necklace presentation case. Gilt, red lacquered formed and stitched thin wood armature with carved or pressed fret pattern on sides and top also with auspicious symbols and characters conveying congratulations upon promotion. Diameter, about 7 5/8 inches (19.37 cm). Height, about 2 1/2 inches (6.35 cm). Very good condition with tasteful and old conservation to small areas of lacquer and expected rubbing to gilt surface. Retaining the original hinge and latch hardware (a thin bronze-like alloy). Also retaining a shaped, seal stamped label on the interior (where it was well protected) which may date to when the case was made. We are conservatively estimating the case to be late Qing to early Republican. A similar case but with archaic characters was sold by Aspire Auctions, February 6, 2014, lot 306

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