A rare pair of Chinese export porcelain octagonal footed spice boxes, hand-painted in Famille Verte enamels with images of flowering lotus, almost certainly modeled after European silver forms of the period, even attempting to recreate the mask handles one sees on silver of this period.  In addition another unusual feature is the interior of both boxes both with three spice compartments which we have not seen before.  These would have been truly novel and luxurious items to adorn one’s table with at the end of 17th century. Measuring 3 1/4″ tall by 5″ long and 3 1/2″ wide.  One box with evidence of an interior rim restoration, otherwise both pieces in very good condition and great examples of the decorative cultural exchange between Europe and China at this period. Circa 1700.