Baoding Ball Storage Box Appraisal

Lotus Pond Brand Healthy Ball (Baoding Ball) Storage Box

This is a small, rectangular box designed to hold 'Healthy Balls' or 'Baoding Balls', often used for hand exercise and health benefits. The box features a dark blue silk or satin fabric exterior, richly embroidered or woven with a deep red and gold floral pattern, possibly depicting lotus flowers or similar traditional Asian motifs, alongside what appears to be part of a pagoda or architectural element. There is a prominent paper label adhered to the top surface, which reads "HEALTHY BALL" in English, and also includes Chinese characters. The central part of the label has a circular design featuring the words "Lotus Pond" and a red seal impression, indicating the brand 'Lotus Pond'. To the left and right of this central motif, additional Chinese characters are present, '運池牌' on the left and '健身球' on the right, which translate to 'Lotus Pond Brand' and 'Health Ball' respectively. The box has a small, ornate, tarnished brass or bronze-toned metal clasp on the front for closure. The construction appears to be a hinged lid design. The fabric shows minor signs of wear and slight dust accumulation, consistent with age and storage, but no significant tears or damage. The label itself is well-adhered with no prominent creasing or tearing. The stitching or weaving of the fabric pattern appears to be of good quality, suggesting attention to detail in its manufacture. It likely dates from the late 20th or early 21st century, given the combination of English and Chinese text on the label.