清乾隆

Lotus seedpods are widely regarded in China as auspicious symbols of fertility. The image of lotus seedpods, bursting with seeds, is frequently used in Chinese art, particularly in jade and ivory carvings. Many of these works of art were used as wedding gifts to wish the newlyweds a marriage blessed with many sons.

Compare the present lot with a very similarly modelled lotus pod box and cover, sold in our New York rooms, 15 September 2011, lot 1011.