dark huang hua-li T-shaped box with silver inset hardware at all corners and a large central circular latch on front; inside there are two small compartments with flip lids on either side of a removable rectangular tray at center

Sedan Document Box, 17th century

Unknown artist, Chinaexpand_more

Huanghuali hardwood and pai-tong hardwareexpand_more

Gift of Ruth and Bruce Daytonexpand_more  95.94.1a,b

Not on Viewexpand_more

Sedan boxes are so-called because their T-shaped design allows them to rest across the owner's knees on the carrying rails of the sedan chair while travelling. These boxes were used to bear documents, brushes, seals, money, and other valuables. The shape became synonymous with the scholar official and thus became a necessary accessory for any well-to-do gentleman.

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Details
Title
Sedan Document Box
Role
Artist
Accession Number
95.94.1a,b
Curator Approved

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dark huang hua-li T-shaped box with silver inset hardware at all corners and a large central circular latch on front; inside there are two small compartments with flip lids on either side of a removable rectangular tray at center

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