This ornate needle case is carved with beautiful detail and it has a lovely old patina and grain pattern. It's decorated with Chinese figures and buildings on a ground of foliage and the quality of the carving on this one is way above the norm. The top is in the form of a sunflower. It was carved in China in the early 19th century as an export item for an English workbox.

Aside from a chip in the base, the condition is excellent with no cracks or other damage and it screws together perfectly. It measures 3 3/8" long. This style of needlecase is shown on p. 84 of Nerylla Taunton's book "Antique Needlework Tools and Embroideries".