Dragon" lacquered wooden box, Qing dynasty.

The box has a circular shape with a lid. It is made of carved and black-lacquered wood, painted with red and white pigments. In the centre of the lid is depicted a large flying dragon with five claws, chasing a flaming pearl, surrounded by clouds and a geometric border.

The exterior of the box is decorated with two borders. The one around the edges is composed of simple scrolls, and the one on the wide side depicts flowers with leaves, auspicious characters and spirals. 

Diameter: 35 cm; Height: 17 cm