Imperial Edict Box: More than a storage case

Once kept by the Confucius family, this Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) box was designed to hold imperial edicts. Its wooden body is adorned with gilt dragons and clouds, while a blue plaque bears the words "奉天诰命" (Imperial Edict from the Emperor) in gold Chinese and Manchu characters.

Beyond its intricate craftsmanship, the box offers a glimpse into the relationship between the Confucius family and China's imperial court, preserved in an object made to safeguard royal decrees.