Chinese Drum-Form Lidded Box with Floral Motif

Squat, dark lacquered pot with orange-brown figures painted around its belly.

This drum-form lidded box with floral motif is from China, and dates to the 20th century. Floral decoration is among the most enduring themes in Chinese decorative arts, where flowers often carry associations with seasons and good wishes. Rounded lidded vessel with a smooth, nearly black surface. The lid sits snug at the top, and a few scuffs show on the shoulder. It is 14 inches wide, 14 deep and 12 high.

A little dark storyteller, with its story painted on the outside.