This simple and charming Chinese square box with lid, made from black lacquer and basket weave, dates back to the Ming dynasty (1368-1644).

This piece from Shanxi province is made using a traditional lacquer technique dating back to the Song dynasty. Prior to applying the lacquer, the wood or bamboo base is coated with a woven cloth (traditionally dyed in blue) soaked in a thickened lacquer paste. This adds stability and stops the lacquer from cracking. Then, the layers of lacquer are applied until the desired coating is completed. Part of the lid and part of the bottom half is covered with basket weave for ornamentation.

Comparable items:

https://www.metmuseum.org/art/collection/search/40254?exhibitionId=%7Bdc3a5679-487a-488a-9d94-2a6f1255e415%7D&oid=40254&pkgids=457&pg=0&rpp=20&pos=27&ft=*&offset=20&locale=en

https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/interiors/_chinese-ming-dynasty-lacquered-square-boxes-0f31