326: AN IMPRESSIVE CHINESE EXPORT ARMORIAL LACQUER TRAY

The striking and impactful heraldic decoration on intense red ground rimmed in foliates and a key border in gold leaf framing a floating coat of arms with colors of plum, red and ivory embellished in gold leaf is unlike any Chinese export lacquer object that could be found. It has been a part of the massive collection of Josephine Bird Hall (1888 - 1948) since the early 20th century by descent to the current owner. Unfortunately no other background information is available. A custom shadowbox case from which it was recently removed (contributing to its excellent condition) is included.
Measures 1.75 x 23.25 x 30.25 inches.
Very good condition, noting the standard characteristics of crazing as seen in the images and four areas of wear and minor extreme edge surface loss (two top edge, two bottom edge) where the tray was secured in the shadowbox.
Provenance: The collection of Josephine Bird Hall (1888 - 1948) by descent to her son, the present owner. Josephine's father was a founder of Kansas City's Emery, Bird, Thayer Department Store.
$1,000 - $3,000