Chinese Qing Dynasty Guangxu Period White Metal Oval Box

Offered for sale is un unusual white metal oval shaped box. It is embossed on each side with Chinese characters in a ring and features engraved images of boys that appear to be chasing bats in the centres. Young boys are thought to represent prosperity and good fortune and bats happiness and longevity in Chinese culture. The lid is decorated with more Chinese characters and images such as a tea pot and a jar. The stamp on the bottom appears to be from the Qing Dynasty Guangxu period and the maker De Chang.