清乾隆 剔紅雕漆「雙龍捧壽」圖圓蓋盒 《乾隆寶盒》款

of circular section, the flat top of the slightly domed cover carved with a medallion enclosing a pair of dragons flanking a vase against a background of tempestuous waves, all surrounded by finely picked out borders, including one of the 'classic' scroll, another of the anbaxian emblems interspersed with peony blooms, and another of shou medallions and geometric motifs, the sides of the box and cover similarly decorated with sanduo against dense foliage, the ripe clusters of pomegranates, finger-citrons and peaches detailed with diaper, all above a key-fret border encircling the foot, the interior and base lacquered black, the base incised and filled in with gilt with an inscription reading Qianlong baohe (Treasure box of Qianlong)

There are expected age cracks to the box and cover including one infilled measuring approx. 10 cm to the interior of the box. The interior and base of the box have also been relacquered to stabilise the age cracks. There are tiny lacquer flakes to the edges of the rims of the box and cover with areas repainted. There are also expected small chips to the edges and fragile extremities of the carving on the exterior.
"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."

Another Qianlong circular cinnabar lacquer box and cover of near identical composition of the dragons decoration and borders was sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 28th May 2014, lot 3338.

The five-clawed dragon is symbolic of the emperor and the pairing of dragons with floating anbaxian ('Daoist Miscellaneous Treasures') and a taichi symbol combines elements from two separate traditions: the dragon from Chinese mythology and the vase from Daoist iconography. The talismanic elements represent transcendent wisdom spiritual accomplishment, and when depicted with the dragon these motifs are highly suited to imperial works of art, due to Emperor's heaven-endowed status.