One of a Pair of Boxes in the Shape of Ducks

China

Not on view

Ducks, particularly when represented in pairs, symbolize fidelity and marital bliss. It is possible that this charming pair was once a wedding gift or a portion of a woman’s dowry. Part of the back of each duck is removable to allow incense or some other easily dispensed substance to be stored inside.

One of a Pair of Boxes in the Shape of Ducks, Wood with mother-of-pearl, ivory, and glass, China

Due to rights restrictions, this image cannot be enlarged, viewed at full screen, or downloaded.

Open Access

As part of the Met's Open Access policy, you can freely copy, modify and distribute this image, even for commercial purposes.

API

Public domain data for this object can also be accessed using the Met's Open Access API.

One of a Pair of Boxes in the Shape of Ducks, Wood with mother-of-pearl, ivory, and glass, China
One of a Pair of Boxes in the Shape of Ducks, Wood with mother-of-pearl, ivory, and glass, China

This artwork is meant to be viewed from right to left. Scroll left to view more.