This is a quirky vintage Chinese set of miniature figurines. They are probably mid-20th century in date.
The set consists of 78 little miniature ceramic figurines. They are all hand-painted in vibrant colours.
The figures are housed in a hard box that is covered with a decorative bright red Chinese patterned silk. They would be displayed by opening the box wide (as photographed). Each figurine is fitted into the box - and cannot be removed - so there is little chance of you losing any from the set.
I think this is a very cute set and so colourful. It is certainly very much of its time.
There are little lozenges inside: one in Chinese and the other in English. This tells you that the models represent members of the "Red Dream" families. They represent members of four families: Jia, Shi, Xue, and Wang. They are the subject of an 18th-century Chinese poem. This set must have been made for more of a Chinese rather than an export market - as there are little stickers in Chinese beside each model telling you who they are.
The box measures 16 3/4 inches (40 cm) in length and 6 inches wide. The height of the box is 1 1/4/ Each wee figure is about 1 1/2 inches in height.
The set is in fabulous condition, and you will not be disappointed with it. These much larger sets are hard to find, and this is reflected in my asking price.
The box will be sent to UK destinations only. It will be sent with Royal Mail Recorded (Medium Parcel). This will be applied to your order at the checkout.