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A VIETNAMESE DOWRY BOX OF ROSEWOOD AND MOTHER-OF-PEARL

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Directory: Antiques: Regional Art: Asian: Southeast Asian: Inlay Work: Pre 1920: Item # 880539

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Ruyi Studio San Francisco
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A VIETNAMESE DOWRY BOX OF ROSEWOOD AND MOTHER-OF-PEARL
A Vietnamese lacquered rosewood (hardwood) and mother-of-pearl inlaid wedding or dowry box circa 1880-1920 with a rich, dark patina. The form and decoration are typical of such wedding boxes produced in and around the region of Hue, the former royal capital. Depending on the size, these boxes were used to contain almost anything a bride might bring to her married life from jewelry to consumables such as betel nut leaves. The inlay decoration depicts, on the lid, butterflies, branches, flowers and foliage, the top surrounded by a geometric key-fret design, the inlay in subtle shades of white, green and lavender against a dark brown lacquered ground. The lid is decorated on top and sides, and the outer walls of the box's interior, seen only when the box is open, are also decorated, in a somewhat simpler but related theme which incorporates vases as well as branches, foliage and birds. Condition: wonderful dark patina. There is some shrinking and swelling and minor losses to the wood which has occurred with age. The elaborate mother-of-pearl decoration is almost completely intact with only some very minor losses. Dimensions: height: 9.5cm (3-3/4”); diameter 25cm (10”); weight: 1kg 164g (2 lbs 10 ounces).


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