Antique Chinese Carved Wooden Puzzle Box with Dragon & Serpent Motifs – c.1900
 
Description
Authentic antique Chinese carved wooden puzzle box dating to the late 19th to early 20th century, circa 1900. This piece is richly decorated with high-relief carvings of intertwined dragons and serpents across the lid and all exterior panels, executed with fine attention to scale texture, flowing movement, and layered depth.
 
The box features an integrated concealed locking mechanism. A section of the lower front panel slides laterally to the right, releasing the lid and allowing access to the interior. This hidden mechanism is original to the piece and reflects traditional Chinese puzzle-box craftsmanship, where ingenuity, secrecy, and symbolism were central to the design.
 
Inside, the box is lined in deep red velvet and includes a fitted removable tray, indicating use as a jewellery, keepsake, or valuables chest rather than a purely decorative object. The combination of symbolic dragon imagery, functional puzzle construction, and aged patina gives the piece strong presence and historical character.
 
Features
Chinese carved wooden puzzle / secret box
Late 19th to early 20th century production, circa 1900
Concealed sliding-panel locking mechanism
High-relief dragon and serpent carvings to lid and sides
Removable velvet-lined interior tray
Decorative carved borders and stepped base
Strong sculptural form with deep hand-cut detailing
Materials / Construction
Hand-carved hardwood, consistent with traditional Chinese furniture woods such as teak or camphor
Panelled box construction with carved exterior faces
Traditional hand-tool carving techniques
Red velvet interior lining
Brass hinges
 
Condition
Good antique condition. Wear consistent with age, including surface wear, softened carved edges, and minor marks to the wood. The concealed sliding lock mechanism functions correctly. Interior velvet shows age-appropriate wear. No major structural damage or modern repairs observed.
 
Dimensions
Width: approx. 9 inches / 23 cm
Depth: approx. 5 inches / 12.5 cm
Height: approx. 4.5 inches / 11.5 cm
(Measurements are approximate see ruler in photos.)
Notes
 
Dragon imagery in Chinese decorative arts symbolises power, protection, prosperity, and wisdom. Puzzle boxes of this type were traditionally crafted to safeguard valuables while also demonstrating the maker’s technical skill and creativity. This example combines symbolic carving with functional ingenuity, making it a highly collectible and visually striking antique object.