Regency English Rectangular Chinoiserie Black Lacquered Box with Lid

Box represents a time when British high society was absolutely obsessed with the romance and exoticism of the Far East. The painting on the box tells a story of an idealized dream of China.

“Chinoiserie” (a French word meaning Chinese-esque) wasn’t authentic Asian art; it was a fanciful European interpretation of it. While the trend started earlier, it hit a massive fever pitch during the Regency era because King George IV (the Prince Regent) was utterly obsessed with it. He famously built the Royal Pavilion in Brighton, filling it with bamboo furniture, dragons, and heavy black-and-gold lacquer. Whatever the King loved, British high society rushed to buy.

In the 19th century, these large rectangular boxes were highly prized, expensive status symbols meant to be proudly displayed in a drawing room. Because they were functional storage pieces, they usually served a few specific luxury purposes: tea caddies; work boxes / sewing boxes; gaming boxes; writing slopes (lap desks). Today, they can be used for similar purposes, adding unique character to your interior.

A collectible piece with a beautifully preserved patina.