Dimensions: 3-5/8" H x 5-3/4" Dia. Stunning, Chinese Qing Dynasty Period, Qianlong gilt bronze lidded box. Finest gilt bronze carved in thick and sturdy, covered box is sturdily potted in a compressed globular form, with domed lid, Inner flange circumscribed around the dome lip allows for a perfect fitment of the covering, raised with small round foot base. The upper dome lid carved with Shou Chinese calligraphy medallion, enclosed with interlocking key fret and single ring lines round the center medallion. The exterior dome lid and the lower main body carved in detail and emerge of five claws imperial dragon soaring amidst flames and vapors, with face and upper right appendage outstretched toward the heavens. Vigorous dragons chasing flaming pearl amidst flames against gilt scrolling clouds diaper. The backdrop depicts swirling wind and fire painted atop a beautiful gilt bronze glazed. Dragon is the symbol of the Emperor, the Son of Heaven, eternity, Yang and Yin, male vigor and fecundity, the Li-Shui wave pattern which is known to be the abode of dragons. The dragon is also the most important of the four super natural creatures in Chinese mythology, ranked with the Phoenix, the Qilin, and the Tortoise. The dragon is also the symbol of the month March, of Spring and of rebirth and fertility for it brings the rain bearing clouds of spring. When shown with the heavenly pearl, sometimes ball, it represents thunder and the storm. Emblem of vigilance and safety, and frequently associated with the idea of joy. The gilt bronze conformed all required specimen to be high valued Chinese bronze wares, with finest material, the gilt, the carving, and the shape. Without overlap the outlines of the design, well carved, clear, subtle, and distinct. The bronze is bright and lustrous as the light is easily reflected from the well-polished surfaces. Excellent craftsmanship is evident in the fine detail giving this piece an unforgettable appearance. The underside bears a reign mark, a four engraved script characters reign mark enclosed within double frame borders; Made Of The Years Qianlong Reign Period.