A Rare and delightful penwork decorated writing slope in chinoiserie designs. 

The painting and drawing is flat, relying for its effect on the brush/pen strokes. The artist endeavored to encapsulate the magic of Cathay in a scene of calm and tranquility. Circa 1800.

Dimensions:

The box is 11 inches wide 9.25 back to front wide and The height tapers  from 3.6 inches to 2.5 inches (when closed).

 Please Click on the images to enlarge.

There is a repartee between the central figures. Their facial expressions are interpreted with a few effective strokes. This is a departure from the 18th century oriental designs, in that it strives for more realism and consistency of perspective.

Inside the box has a baize writing surface A covered compartment for pens as well as inkwells.

Overall the writing box is in good condition and retains its original varnish.

This box is featured at figure 499 in our book Antique Boxes, Tea Caddies, and Society -- 1700--1880, ISBN: 0764316885  Antigone Clarke & Joseph O'Kelly, A Schiffer Book for collectors.