Chinese Scroll Box with Sliding Lid

Long, narrow dark box with a lid that slides out one end.

This zitan scroll box with a sliding lid is from Southern China, and dates to the 20th century. Boxes for scrolls were made to protect paintings and calligraphy, which are often rolled up and stored when not on display. Photographed, a slim rectangular case with plain, straight sides and a flat sliding lid. A small tab at the right end lets the lid slip free. The surface is deep brown, close grained and quietly worn. It is 24.5 inches wide, 4 deep and 3 high.

All business, with nothing to say until it opens.