Cantonese Opera Makeup Box

MOA: University of British Columbia

2967/51 a-e

Small sliver plated make-up box. Top has a fold up mirror, and connects when closed to the front with a decorative latch. Box holds two long thin drawers, the top of which (part b) comes out, and the bottom is stuck in place. Each has two leaf-shaped hanging handles on the front. Hanging bar handles protrude from the sides (one handle is missing, the other, part c, is loose). The sides and front of drawers are finely engraved with scenes of flowers, foliage and birds. The lid shows a scene of a man and woman embracing among trees and birds, surrounded by low trellises. Part d is a small brush with a thin silver handle and long stiff bristles. Part e is a varnished wooden comb with fine teeth and painted flowers and branches on its front.

  • History Of Use

    Used to hold makeup and cosmetics for Cantonese opera troupe performers.


  • Type of Item box
  • Culture Cantonese
  • Material silver metal, metal, glass, wood, paint, hair
  • Measurements height 10.5 cm, width 13.7 cm, depth 19.5 cm (overall) height 3.0 cm, width 10.0 cm, depth 18.5 cm (part b) height 3.5 cm, width 7.5 cm, depth 1.8 cm (part c) height 3.2 cm, width 13.5 cm, depth 1.7 cm (part d) height 4.5 cm, width 13.5 cm, depth 0.4 cm (part e)

  • Previous Owner Jin Wah Sing Musical Association
  • Received from Jin Wah Sing Musical Association

  • Made in China

  • Creation Date between 1900 and 1950
  • Ownership Date before August 29, 2012
  • Acquisition Date on August 29, 2012

  • Condition fair
  • Accession Number 2967/0051 a-e