
Vintage Chinese Cork Carving Jewelry Box
This is a rectangular wooden jewelry or trinket box featuring a decorative lid with a traditional Chinese cork carving scene. The box is constructed with a distinctive 'faux-bamboo' carved border on the lid, finished in a high-gloss amber and dark brown lacquer that mimics the nodes of a bamboo stalk. The central inset is protected by glass and contains a detailed dioramas of hand-cut cork, depicting a landscape with a pagoda, bridge, trees, and small white birds swimming on a reflective surface against a dark background. The box features a hinged lid and a simple metal swing-latch closure on the front. Based on the style and craftsmanship, this item likely dates to the mid-to-late 20th century (circa 1960s-1980s), a period when these cork diorama boxes were popular exports from China. The condition appears fair to good; there is visible wear to the metal hardware which shows some tarnishing, and potential surface scratches or light abrasions to the lacquered wood finish consistent with age and use. No visible maker's marks are present on the exterior, and the internal compartment is not shown, which may contain velvet lining or traditional paper.
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Estimated Value
$45 - $75
Basic Information
Category
Asian Decorative Arts / Collectibles
Appraised On
January 12, 2026
Estimated Value
$45 - $75
Item Description
This is a rectangular wooden jewelry or trinket box featuring a decorative lid with a traditional Chinese cork carving scene. The box is constructed with a distinctive 'faux-bamboo' carved border on the lid, finished in a high-gloss amber and dark brown lacquer that mimics the nodes of a bamboo stalk. The central inset is protected by glass and contains a detailed dioramas of hand-cut cork, depicting a landscape with a pagoda, bridge, trees, and small white birds swimming on a reflective surface against a dark background. The box features a hinged lid and a simple metal swing-latch closure on the front. Based on the style and craftsmanship, this item likely dates to the mid-to-late 20th century (circa 1960s-1980s), a period when these cork diorama boxes were popular exports from China. The condition appears fair to good; there is visible wear to the metal hardware which shows some tarnishing, and potential surface scratches or light abrasions to the lacquered wood finish consistent with age and use. No visible maker's marks are present on the exterior, and the internal compartment is not shown, which may contain velvet lining or traditional paper.
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