Red Lacquer Snack Box

This simple lacquered container was once used as a 19th-century snack box, presented as a gift during holidays and special occasions. To the delight of the recipients, the unassuming box would have opened to reveal a bounty of popular snack foods, such as roasted melon seeds, dried fruits, and soybeans toasted with cinnamon, fennel, and other spices. The exterior of the square box is covered with a layer of black lacquer and accented with red color-blocking, while the interior has a contrasting brown lacquer coat. Now crackled and textured from years of use, we love this humble snack box as a storied token from the past.