Featured Any idea what this little Asian carved box is?

It came in a box lot and I probably wouldn't think twice about it but there's a $35 price sticker on the bottom.

The pieces inside are different shapes and all carved.

Any help is appreciated!

 

Hm. I wonder whether the pieces inside form a puzzle - or more than 1! And the box is just for keeping the pieces together?

 

I’m with Bakersgma - Puzzle box was my guess as well.

 

Sweet. But it wouldn't have cost $35 in its day. Would have been a dime store item.

Does that say "Cousin Bessie from Paul?"

Debora

 

Style of carving is 19thc Chinese, similar devices seen on Ivory card cases.

I think this is an old piece.

 

A lot of the items in the auction lot had price stickers. We don't know if the estate was an antique dealer or bought a lot of stuff in antique shops.

 

Could it be betting markers in the box?

 

Thank you!

 

Very nice, vintagerobin. I agree, it is an older Chinese piece, made in the region of Canton/Guangdong, I'd say late 19th-early 20th century.

 

It is charming. And beautifully carved. Thank you for the information.

Debora