Red and Gold Qinghai Painted Cabinet, 1890s

Description

This stunning antique Qinghai Cabinet displays a classic combination of traditional cinnabar red lacquer and intricately detailed gold paintings, evoking … more This stunning antique Qinghai Cabinet displays a classic combination of traditional cinnabar red lacquer and intricately detailed gold paintings, evoking a luxurious and warm feel from the region in Western China circa 1900. A perfect piece to add character to any interior. This cabinet is crafted from pine for durability and boasts a substantial frame with a slightly projecting top. Decorative red and gold lacquering present on the exterior can be seen around the borders of the frame and bottom of the door, with some of the original coating having worn away to reveal the natural wood hue underneath. The top of the cabinet was initially coated with black lacquer to provide a striking contrast to the red frontal surface, however, the aging process has worn away much of this colouration, leaving only some remnants over the wood.

This Qinghai cabinet features doors that fit directly onto wooden dowels, eliminating the need for metal hinges and providing a large area for the distinct paintings in dark old gold against a darker red background. The intricate paintings depict various symbols of luck, prosperity, and grandeur, and the hardware is of a delicately aged design. This unique piece is quite rare and its proportions allow it to easily be placed in any space as a stunning accent. less