Boxes in the Bedroom–Examining Qing Dynasty Dressing Cases through a Case Study from Kingscote, Rhode Island

The black lacquer box with two front doors with latches and faded surface decorations on the dressing table in the master bedroom of Kingscote mansion in Rhode Island appears unremarkable at first glance due to its color degradation from UV light. However, closer inspection reveals subtle yet exquisite decorations and unique structural features that suggest its significance. According to the Preservation Society of Newport County, it is a "dressing case, China export, and around 1860." Zhuanglian, the Chinese term for "dressing case," originated in the Warring States period (475-221 BCE) as a specialized and necessary object for holding toiletry items. It gradually became a way of showing high social status and wealth, and was an important part of the dowry for women, particularly in the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911).

Rather than analyzing the type of object historically or archaeologically, as previous scholars have done, this paper will conduct a comprehensive material analysis of this particular example—the black lacquer dressing case with gold and carving decorations in a western context at Kingscote. By visually examining and analyzing its decorative motifs, forms, materials, and joinery, integrating previous scholarship, and discussing the potential provenance related to the close connections between the owner’s family and China Trade in the nineteenth century, this paper will interpret the traditional design concepts from the Qing Dynasty and explore potential influences from Western furniture and architecture on this private, elegant, intimate, and women-only safe box.