18th Century Antique Kang Table From Shanxi Province With Elaborate Carving

Description

Shanxi Province is located in North Central China and is on the same latitude as the US Mid Western States. … more Shanxi Province is located in North Central China and is on the same latitude as the US Mid Western States. Imagine a winter without central heat - that was what people in Shanxi province had to endure until modernization in the mid 20th century. The wealthy people in Shanxi built "Kang" beds - a raised brick platform in a room that is heated by coals or other means fed from an opening on the outside wall. A kang can accomodate a few people who sat on the kang to work, eat and sleep. Small and low furniture had to be used on the kang, for eating and writing and for storage.

This ornately carved kang table is one of the pieces in use from the 18th century. The top is a single plank of wood with everted flanges. It is supported by three drawers with very elaborately curved. The wide legs are similar to larger Shanxi cabinets and they are called elephant legs. The original patina has worn off and the little cabinet/table has been re=varnished and restored.

This is an unusually beautiful representation of Shanxi furniture. The style is unique to Shanxi and Honan, and not found elsewhere in China. In a contemporary home, it can be used as a stand to give more height to a piece of sculpture or a vase. It can be used under a window for plants, or as a stand alone piece. less