Gilt Lacquer Hat Box

No self-respecting man in Qing-dynasty China would leave the house without some kind of hat. In fact, headgear was so central to social status that even the containers used to store one's hat were beautifully constructed. This round hat box dates to the 19th century and is beautifully finished with lacquered hide and gilt decoration of bats and clouds. A common motif in Chinese art, bats amid clouds conveys a blessing of luck and good fortune. The box interior is lined with blue fabric and includes a central support designed to preserve the shape of the hat.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.