A HUANGHUALI THREE-TIER CARRY BOX LATE MING – EARLY QING DYNASTY

all supported on a larger rectangular base frame of corresponding form, with an openwork spandrelled upright rising from each short side to meet the handle framing the three-tier box and and cover, the interior of the top tier with a shallow tray resting on its rim, the cover centred with an opening on each short side aligned with the openings on the uprights for the metal rod securing the entire carry box in the base frame, the edges of the frame and handle with metal mounts

Minor bruises surface wear and scratches. Good condition.
"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."

The design of these tiered carry boxes originated from food boxes, made mostly of bamboo and lightweight woods for easy carriage. Attendants carrying them on outings are depicted in numerous Ming period paintings and wood block print illustrations to Ming novels.

This fine example, made in beautifully grained huanghuali wood cut from the same timber with its design derived from the common food box, is probably used to contain valuables. This assumption is reinforced by the presence of a lock mechanism securing the lid to the sides of the handles, rendering the box trays inaccessible, an unusual feature in surviving examples.

This special three-tier carry box is made in huanghuali wood throughout.

Compare a four-tier carry box but without the lock mechanism in the collection of the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, illustrated in Wang Shixiang et al., Masterpieces from the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture, Chicago and San Francisco, 1995, p. 149; and a two-tier example, also without the lock mechanism, in the museum collection in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis, illustrated in Robert D. Jacobsen et al, Classical Chinese Furniture in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, Minneapolis, 1999, pp. 196-197.