Up for sale is this SUPER RARE early-to-mid 19th C antique Chinese export lacquered carved and painted wood folding game board box with chess / checkers on the outside and backgammon on the interior.

This piece is exceptionally painted with so many gilt figures everywhere and landscape courtyard scenes on the outer border of the game box. In each black square of the chess / checker board, we see a robed figure, one of five and perhaps each individual of an entire family. Three boys and adult male and female figure. Even where it folds, there are figural scenes of three robed men, two sitting and resting and one standing.

Between the cartouches of figures, we see floral vine scrolls. The chess board outer border is decorated with scholar art objects like scrolls and also butterflies or moths and beautiful flower blossoms throughout.

The interior is also beautifully decorated with black ground, red and gilt gold backgammon triangular lines, and two center designs with vine scrolls, and possible family crest with black and white checkered flags in center.

Besides some small surface lacquer flake loss, surface and corner wear, some minor surface stains / marks and a few edge crack lines, this piece is in quite amazing condition. Very little loss throughout and very difficult to find in this pristine of condition! Inside and out, I think this is quite a clean and great piece!

Dates to around the 1820s and definitely made for export to a wealthy family of means.

When opened, this piece measures about 19.3” inches long and wide and 1.8” inches tall (49 cm, 4.6 cm).

Would make a fantastic display piece, fine addition to a collection, or a great gift!

If you’re looking for vintage / unique, one-of-a-kind items for yourself, or as gifts for someone else, you’ve come to the right store! I take pride in bringing you quality handmade art of all kinds and even rare antiques and treasures from around the world!

Please enjoy all the photos provided and feel free to ask questions. Browse my other arts and collectibles as I post new treasures each week and I do combine shipping to help you save on total costs. Sales tax applied to all CA residents and by eBay where state laws now require it.

Thank you for looking!