Antique Chinese “stacking box” in famille verte style

Interesting antique Chinese famille verte “stacking box” likely from the late 1800’s (Qing Dynasty) to early 1900’s (Republic Period). These stacking boxes were used both for functional storage (spices, jewelry, sweets, coins etc.) and decorative purposes. The “verte” (green) enamels underglaze form a deep and vibrant base of color high-lighted with iron-red accents. The characters on the top box are in traditional Chinese dress (in green, iron-red and blue). The boxes show the characteristic signs of age (typical of antique Chinese porcelain) on the interlocking foot rims. This appears as a brown discoloring created from oxidation of the iron impurities in the unglazed clay. There are small chips on the rims of 2 of the bowls from use and age (see the last 2 photos) but this is not visible when stacked, and doesn’t affect the “clean fit” each bowl has stacking with the others. The bowls are otherwise in very good condition. 3-5/8” in diameter, and 3-7/16” tall. $45. Must pickup at Central Ave and Encanto, in central Phoenix (near the Heard Museum).

Condition

Used (normal wear)