A RARE SMALL GOLD SQUARE 'BUTTERFLIES' BOX INCISED SEAL MARK AND PERIOD OF QIANLONG

of square section raised on four angular key-fret feet, the hinged cover decorated with a pair of repoussé butterflies flying amidst florets against a circle-punched ground, enclosed within a frame detailed with prunus twigs, each side of the box similarly adorned with a butterfly in flight among florets, the interior with a curved bottom, the flat base incised with a four-character reign mark within double squares

The overall condition is very good, with only minor dents and some light surface scratches.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This exquisite box captures the delicacy and femininity of its owner through the butterflies and flower heads that flutter against an intricate ground of tiny stamped circles. The form and decorative techniques of the box appear to have been inspired by small gold reliquary boxes of the Tang dynasty (618-907). For a gold Tang box decorated with scenes of the Buddha, see a larger example unearthed from the Underground Palace of Famen Temple in Fufeng County, 1987, in the collection of Famen Temple Museum, Famen, illustrated in National Treasure Collection of Rare Cultural Relics of Shaanxi Province, Xi'an, 1998, p. 139.

The butterflies and prunus blossoms decorating this box symbolise blessings, happiness and longevity.