(清代寧波朱金雕龍鳳嫁妝木提籃）22215 An antique carved oval shaped wooden bucket with lid and handle from the late Qing Dynasty from Ningbo area in China. This gracefully shaped bucket still retains its original vivid red pigment that is made from ground organic compound, with gilt color applied to the carving on the handle. Hence, the woodwork can be classified under the category of “朱金, Zhu-Jin, Red-and-Gilt or Red-and-Gold” for its distinct finish. While we had seen in the past quite a few wooden objects with this beautiful red pigment, such objects with this unobstructed beautiful red without any added refinish over its original striking color are getting harder to find.

This bucket was made for a bride with dragon and phoenix carved on the handle, with the two dragons on the two sides as if biting and holding the handle, while two phoenix birds were carved inside, holding an auspicious peony flower. Peony is often used to describe female's elegance and prosperity. The use of the dragon and phoenix together is often seen in wedding related objects.

Dimensions: 13” L x 10” W x12” H

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