明末 / 清初 紫檀木兩撞提盒

all supported on a larger rectangular base frame of corresponding form, with an openwork spandrelled upright reticulated with ruyi-shaped motifs rising from each short side to meet the humpback-shaped handle framing the two-tiered 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

The box is in overall good condition with expected minor bruises and surface wear to the edges. There is also expected oxidation to the metal pin.
"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."

此類多層提盒設計源自食格，常用竹器或雜木製作，取其輕便易提攜帶。許多明朝繪畫以及其他圖例也有描繪侍從在出遊時拎着提盒。

此件精巧的提盒，全器使用堅硬致密的紫檀木造，包括格內底板，雖然設計源自一般食格，但應是用來存放貴重物品。

羅伯特及雅各布遜等，〈明尼阿波利斯藝術博物館藏中國古典家具〉，明尼阿波利斯，1999年，頁198 – 199 載錄明尼阿波利斯藝術博物館藏的一具相似例子

另一例收錄於王世襄及袁荃猷 ，《明式家具萃珍》， 美國中華藝文基金會， Tenth Union International Inc，芝加哥及舊金山，1997年，頁148 – 149年。