Carved Lacquer Scroll Box

The elaborate design, superior craftsmanship, and inscription carved into the red cinnabar lacquer proclaim the imperial pedigree of this scroll box. On either end is a five-clawed dragon, a design reserved only for an emperor. More dragons twist and wind through swirling clouds and waves along the length of the box’s sides and top. The carving is intricate and vigorous, while the design is controlled and regular.

This box housed the private portraits of the Qianlong Emperor, his empress, and 11 other favorites among his presumed 40 or more wives during his 60-year reign. It was commissioned to be made in Suzhou when no more portraits were added to the scroll. An entry in the imperial workshop records relates to the Cleveland box. It states that in 1787, a box design with a dragon pattern, including the inscription, In his heart is envisioned a peaceful reign, was sent to a Suzhou workshop.

Imperial portraits were collected in the Chonghua Palace in the Forbidden City, and the emperor’s portrait was kept in this red lacquer box from Suzhou.