Pair Of Chinese Cloisonné Silver Quail Boxes, Circa 1920

A pair of finely crafted Chinese silver quails, circa 1920, designed as lidded boxes.

Each bird is naturalistically modeled and decorated with cloisonné enamel with extraordinary precision. The plumage is worked in subtle shades from pale yellow to light brown, with delicate gradations on the neck, body, and tail, enhancing their lifelike appearance.

Each feather is formed by individually applied cloisonné enamel, carefully following the natural direction of growth: dense around the neck, looser on the body. The craftsmanship is remarkably refined, deeply rooted in Chinese tradition.

The quail, a symbol of peace, security, and harmony in Chinese culture, is here both a charming sculpture and a functional container. Each bird opens to reveal a hollow interior, ideal as a small jewelry box, keepsake box, or decorative object.

Provenance: China, early 20th century
Condition: Very good
Dimensions: length 10cm,width 5.5cm,height 4.5cm
Weight: 220G

Highlights:
• Rare pair of Chinese cloisonné silver quail boxes
• Beautiful enamel work with naturalistic feather details
• Functional lidded form, ideal as a jewelry or trinket box
• Symbolic motif of peace and harmony in Chinese art