Red Lacquered Sewing Basket

A finely made, 19th century Chinese red lacquer basket in remarkable original condition. Of round form with painted cover depicting a scene in the imperial garden with pavilions in depth and verdant trees. The figures are a senior official and his family among flute-playing musicians. A young servant on the right is seen entering the garden carrying a mill, an interesting symbolic detail indicating the wealth of the family with grain abundance. A circular boarder with eternity symbols. Basket is constructed using solid cut wood that are curved elegantly, and is supported by a hand carved, gilded scalloped base. The domed top cover opens in the middle and is latched with bronze hardware. Such a basket was often used in a wedding in the Qing dynasty. With its auspicious round shape and joyful red lacquer, it brings prosperity and good fortune to the family.