Chinese Red Lacquered Blanket Chest with Gilt Motifs and Guardian Lions

A small Chinese red lacquered wedding blanket chest from the 20th century, with gilt décor depicting guardian lions, calligraphy, scrolling clouds and bats, as well as yellow fabric lining and iron hardware. Created in China during the 20th century, this blanket chest attracts our attention with its stunning red lacquered ground accented by a gilt décor. A rectangular lid, adorned with an auspicious geometric medallion, bats and scrolling foliage, opens up thanks to a traditional brass clasp to reveal a striking interior lined with yellow fabric, accented with a mark. The façade showcases foo dogs guardian lions surrounding a bow-tied sphere. Calligraphy around the lid, with auspicious connotations such as the number nine, phoenixes and dragons symbolizing the blissful relations between husband and wife, indicates that this is meant as a wedding gift.

Scrolling clouds complete the ensemble. The sides present linear handles with ribbon allowing the piece to be moved more easily. The back is also adorned, but in a much more sparse manner, with delicate foliage. With its exquisite colors and small proportions, this Chinese red lacquered blanket chest from the 20th century will make for a lovely decorative addition to any home, particularly placed in a bedroom or living room.