Nest of boxes on a stand

Produced as a set, these boxes, complex in ornamentation and execution, are used to hold cosmetics and personal accessories. When assembled, this work takes the form of a pile of silver ingots. The design was inspired by the decorative arts, especially the art of furniture construction.

The boxes have nearly identical decorations and shapes. They are densely carved with symbolic motifs and intricate patterns representing nobility, wealth, longevity, peace, and a happy marriage. These popular decorative motifs include peonies, magical fungi, sacred lilies, and archaic symbols such as ritual bronzes.