A Ding-type circular box and cover, Northern Song dynasty | 北宋 定窰系白釉蓋盒

Finely potted small boxes such as the present example were inspired by metal prototypes and used to store valuable items such as cosmetic pigments and fragments of rare, fragrant woods used for incense. A similar example, described as either Xing or Ding and 10th century, is illustrated in Decorated Porcelains of Dingzhou, White Ding Wares from the Collection of the National Palace Museum, Taipei, 2014, pl. I-22. Compare also a box and cover from the Falk Collection, sold at Christie's New York, 15th October 2001, lot 429.