A Chinese gilt leather hat box dating from the late Qing dynasty. The exterior is gilt with bats, cranes, ruyi clouds, and a Greek key border, and the interior is lined with blue textile atop a bamboo frame. Dimensions: 12 1/2 inches tall X 14 1/2 inches dia.; 31.8 cm tall, 36.8 cm dia. All measurements are approximate. Condition: Hinge has been repaired. Damage to the rawhide on the bottom, tears to the center molded circle and possible reinforcement to a punctured area. Top has an area where the leather has split and been repaired. Provenance: From an Arlington, Virginia collection.