Tc146:  A penwork tea chest, true to the spirit of the Regency. Its shape is of pure Egyptian inspiration. The top is decorated in designs of neoclassical derivation. The center features a pattera pattern slightly suggestive of a flower. The lower surround and the wide triangular panels feature acanthus leaves. The narrower sides have leaves enclosing either a stylized pinecone (ancient symbol of fertility) or a pineapple (a fruit of the East). The main body of work is in chinoiserie. The figures and landscapes have a light element, which was introduced in the second part of the 18th century, but which did not find true expression in England until the advent of penwork. Much of the design is inspired by Mathias Darly's and George Edwards' A New Book of Chinese Designs. For example, the book gives illustrations of "Indian" islands, bits of land somehow floating in the universe. Such islands were earthly manifestations of the "Islands of the Blessed". Furthermore there are "dragon boats", dragons, roofs with hanging bells, fishing figures, pointed hats, bridges, and railings. Dragon boats are used in South China in festivities during the 5th day of the 5th month. Such boat races were most probably witnessed by the Europeans who were stationed in Canton. The people in the peculiar conveyance carried by two bearers could have also been inspired by designs showing fantastical vehicles with rococo curves and cusps. Specific designs for buildings were also illustrated in this book and were repeated in The Ladies Amusement. For example the building on the left of the back with the large bells may be a Royal Garden Seat. Both the composition and the execution of the artwork is a sheer delight. Note the formal woven design, again a mixture of the classical and the oriental. Unusually the feet too are decorated in penwork. The box retains much of its original varnish. A superb piece of its period. 

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