FORMERLY THE PROPERTY OF GENERAL CHARLES COUSIN-MONTAUBAN (FRANCE, 1796–1878) , 1ST COUNT OF PALIKAO THE LEADER OF THE FRENCH TROOPS DURING THE ANGLO-FRENCH CAMPAIGN IF CHINA (1860) THAT ENTERED THE SUMMER PALACE (YUÁNMÍNGYUÁN - 圓明園) (BY REPUTE, ACCORDING TO LABEL) A LARGE CINNABAR LACQUER ‘DAOIST IMMORTALS’ CIRCULAR BOX AND COVER CHINA, POSSIBLY QING DYNASTY Of massive size and of round shape, it has a removable domed cover or lid. It is carved with a covering geometric pattern at the exception of the top of the lid, which bears a reserved medallion. In the latter, we can see a Daoist immortal seated on rocks in a landscape planted with pine trees. There is an attendant behind him while it seems that he is giving an audience to someone. It is offered at auction together with a large and old five-legged collector wooden stand that matches the box. Also included with this lot is an old handwritten paper label inscribed in French as follows: ‘Rapporté du Palais d’été de Pékin Expédition Général Cousin Montauban Comte de Palikao Expédition 1860’ (lit. in English: ‘Brought back from Beijing Summer Palace, General Cousin Montauban Chinese campaign, Count of Palikao, 1860). Dimensions (stand excluded): H: 12 cm - D: 19 cm Dimensions (Stand): 11 cm Provenance: - a private collection, Toulouse, France; - General Cousin Montauban (France, 1796–1878) , 1st Count of Palikao (by repute, according to the label). 朱红漆八仙带盖大圆盒 中国 NOTE: CONDITION REPORTS AND MEASUREMENTS It is up to the bidder to satisfy themselves prior to buying as to the condition of a lot. In relation to Condition Reports, whilst we make certain observations on the lot, which are intended to be as helpful as possible, references in the condition report to damage or restoration are for guidance. The absence of such a reference does not imply that an item is free from defects or restoration, nor does a reference to particular defects imply the absence of any others. The condition report is an expression of opinion only and must not be treated as a statement of fact. Measurements and weight are approximate and the potential bidder may re-ask it to be checked when asking for a condition report.