Antique Chinese Red Lacquer Side Chest With Gilt Butterfly Motif

Description

This beautiful little cabinet is from Shaanxi in central China, circa 1870 -1890. This is a wonderful example of the … more This beautiful little cabinet is from Shaanxi in central China, circa 1870 -1890. This is a wonderful example of the painted cabinets produced in that region for centuries and comes with a certificate of authenticity.

This stunning cabinet is in its original rich, deep red lacquer finish, which is worn in places and shows dark elm wood beneath the thick layers of lacquer and paint. The beautifully decorated gilt butterflies (known as 'miao jin' in Chinese) has been professionally refreshed. In Chinese culture, the butterfly is a symbol of joy and marital happiness and is often found on furniture from the Shaanxi region. The hardware is old, in keeping with the character and charm of this 19th century Chinese furniture.

Shaanxi is considered one of the cradles of Chinese civilization. Parts of Shaanxi were some of the earliest settled parts of China, and became the capital of the Qin dynasty, which mobilized mass labour for construction of parts of the Great Wall of China and the large irrigation systems that provided the economic base and vast wealth for Qin’s eventual conquest and seminal unification of the entire continent.

This delightful little chest, which features a single drawer over two doors that open to compact storage, makes a lovely accent piece for a bedroom, living room or reception area.

Product Information:
Dimensions: 15.5" W x 12.5" D x 23.5” H
Materials: Northern Elm Wood
Style: Chinese
Condition: Very good; consistent with age and use.

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