Two antique Chinese export work boxes

Each work box in this duo is markedly different. One work box, the shorter of the two, was produced in China during the mid-19^th Century; the rectangular box, with chamfered corners, is lacquered and parcel gilt, decorated with cartouches containing flowers and figures. This box’s interior, accessed by a hinged lid, features compartments, while the front of the box includes a frieze drawer. The second box, the taller of the duo, was produced in China during the early 20^th Century. Its surface is decorated with faux mother-of-pearl inlay above a painted surface, while the lid is inscribed with two Chinese character marks.