A rare beautifully crafted Chinese table top chest made from camphor wood. It is made with such attention to detail with dovetail joints, metal hinges, handles and locks. The camphor wood gives off an aromatic smell. These boxes often called 'seal boxes', yinxia, were used in the 17th century for storage of many things, ranging from cosmetics and jewellery to art curious and writing utensils, and were usually made in pairs and presented as gifts.
The top lifts up to reveal a yellow silk lined rectangular compartment which lifts off to reveal more storage space underneath. The two doors open out to reveal 4 silk lined drawers of varying sizes.
This chest would be especially useful for storing ladies or gent's jewellery as intended in the 17th century or would make a lovely sewing box.
The box is in a lovely condition - you can hardly tell it has been used inside and on the outside the only sign of age is in patina of the metal hinges and handles.