Antique Chinese painted wooden basket – China, circa 1900

Ancient Chinese painted wooden basket, trapezoidal in shape with a central handle, decorated on each side with calligraphic medallions in black pigments on a natural wood background. Originating from China, from the end of the Qing dynasty, this type of container — called dou (斗) — served as a standard grain measure in rural markets and granaries. Painted grain measures were part of the common equipment in Chinese markets until the early 20th century. The central ideogram gōng (公) — visible on the front face — means "public" or "communal, " designating the basket as a certified instrument for collective transactions. The side inscriptions usually named the guild, granary, or calibration period. It is constructed from solid wood, with boards joined with sharp joints and reinforced by small internal battens. The central handle, with dovetail joints on the bottom, divides the interior into two symmetrical compartments and allows it to be carried with one hand. The trapezoidal shape — narrow base, open mouth — facilitated filling and emptying without loss. Details. Dimensions: Length 33 cm – Depth 34 cm – Height 28 cm. Style: Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Solid wood; traditional Chinese assembly with dovetail handle and internal battens; hand-painted decoration with mineral pigments in red and black. Place of origin: China. Period: Qing Dynasty (1644–1912) Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good. Wear consistent with age and use.