One of a pair of boxes with elephants
Qing dynasty (1644–1911), Qianlong period (1736–95)
Marks on the inside and bottom of these boxes indicate that they were produced in the imperial workshop and titled “Peaceful Boxes of Treasure” (shengping baohe). Each cover is decorated with two attendants and a caparisoned elephant bearing a basin of treasures. The facial features of the attendants indicate that they are non-Chinese people. This scene envisions the traditional Chinese fantasy of foreign countries bringing treasures to pay tribute in times of peace. As an exotic and auspicious animal, the elephant is always featured in this visual pun.
This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.