Bidspirit auction | Zitan Document Box (18th-19th Century

Zitan Document Box (18th-19th Century China) - Rectangular document box (measuring approximately 12.5” x 6.25” x 3-5/8”) made from zitan wood. Hasp, plate, and hinges appear to be brass. Per receipt, 18th - 19th century China (Qing Dynasty). Includes original purchase receipt from Pagoda Red in Chicago, Il. There is a visible crack on the left side of the top. Light scuffs on the cover. Light wear on bottom. Also includes a flat display stand. Boxes like these would have been used by scholars or government officials. Zitan wood (red sandalwood or Pterocarpus santalinus) is endemic to southern India, but was highly regarded in China for furniture making. Some thrones used by the Qing emperors were constructed from zitan wood. IUCN lists the species as near threatened.