Articles
Small round cinnabar paste box in Chinese porcelain, with white-blue decoration of a 5-clawed dragon (imperial) chasing the sacred pearl*, signature stamp on the base, from the early 20th century.
This box is in good condition. The interior contains red cinnabar seal paste, a mixture of powdered cinnabar (mercury sulfide), castor oil, and silk threads, used to affix seals to calligraphy, documents, and paintings.
Please note: some dirt, tiny scratches and wear from time, see photos.
* A traditional representation of the dragon in the Tao is that of the sacred pearl, which it holds in its mouth, under its chin, or between its claws. The sacred pearl is guarded by the dragon in a palace located at the bottom of the sea. This pearl symbolizes creation, contains wisdom and knowledge, and the dragon holding it signifies cosmic energy and movement. It is also believed to grant all desires, which is why it is severely forbidden.
