Displaying craftsmanship of a seemingly divine standard the beautiful handmade silver chest was adorned with magnificent jewels, reflecting the sunlight softly down its metallic sides. However, under the strong and gorgeous chest lid, the inside is wretched, torn up and ugly. Splinters jutting out misaligned and teasing all those who look inside. A light scent of overuse and stale wine hastily encouraged the lid to be closed.
Nearby, a simple nondescript timber chest, plain by any journeyman standards. Polished with bees wax and suitable for use, but maybe not suitable for show. Worn and slightly weathered, a certain charm is bestowed upon its build. Underneath the heavy lid, the soft linger of jasmine invites the view of its fine inlaid silks. Trimming with exquisite detail, so soft to touch its perhaps sewn from the night sky.
An old man woman watches on with interest as passers-by come to inspect her wares at the bazaar. The silver chest quickly lures in browsers, then discards their interest once a closer inspection is completed. Many people look at the silver chest for many weeks, but no-one takes it home.
A young man, well-dressed and polite in nature stepped quietly past the silver piece, and instead he ran his hands across the newly polished timber chest. The old woman could tell he wasn’t taken by the design or the plain nature, instead she knew he was drawn to it by the soft Jasmine scent.
The man exchanged some gold with the old merchant for his purchase. He was taking the timber chest with him. The old lady tried to offer the more expensive silver chest but the young man replied with a question;
“Why would I advertise my valuables to the world with a gaudy bauble, like your silver chest?” and then remarked, “My treasures can rest for eternity within a hidden beauty.”