籢 (lián) - A case or box for holding a mirror,

籢Tone 2

lián ｜ 23 strokes ｜ radical:

俊梁

籢 · lián

A case or box for holding a mirror, cosmetics, or other personal items, especially a dressing case used by women in ancient China.

A case or box for holding a mirror,

Usage highlights

Mirror caseDressing caseCosmetic boxJewelry caseAncient caseLacquer case

Synonyms

  • 奁— dressing case, trousseau
  • 匣— box, case
  • 盒— box, case

Usage & contexts

Examples

  • She opened her dressing case (妆籢) to apply makeup.
  • The ancient bronze mirror case (镜籢) was beautifully crafted.
  • This cosmetic box (粉籢) dates from the Ming dynasty.
  • The antique dressing case (妆奁) is a family heirloom.

Collocations

  • Mirror case(镜籢)
  • Dressing case(妆籢)
  • Cosmetic box(粉籢)
  • Jewelry case(饰籢)
  • Ancient case(古籢)
  • Lacquer case(漆籢)

Idioms

  • Dressing case and cosmetic box(妆籢粉盒)
  • Mirror in case, powder in box(镜籢粉奁)

Cultural background

FAQ
  • 籢 was an essential item in the daily life of ancient Chinese women, used for storing cosmetics, mirrors, and jewelry.
  • These cases were often made of fine materials like lacquer, bamboo, or precious woods and could be highly decorated.
  • The character reflects the importance of personal grooming and aesthetic appreciation in traditional Chinese culture.

FAQ