Black Lacquer Shanxi Cabinet with Butterflies

product code: ACW-TA-0900523

£3,995.00

D50 x H181 x W125 x cm

Qty

Shanxi, circa 1860

A remarkable piece of Chinese furniture heritage, this wonderful antique cabinet originates from Shanxi in central China, where such pieces, often referred to as 'Wedding Cabinets' in the west, were generally used for household storage. It would have been made to house precious textiles, fine silks, and other valuable possessions and is in excellent condition for its age.

The cabinet is in its original black lacquer finish, with the outer frames and frames around the three bottom drawers decorated in red with a scrolling, floral pattern. The doors, still with their old hardware, are beautifully decorated with paintings of flowers and dancing butterflies - a symbol in China for marital happiness as well as long life. Below the doors, the fixed panel features a decorated geometric pattern. The paintings have all mellowed gracefully over time, their original vivid hues now softened into a refined, understated palette that provides a more subtle contrast with the deep black lacquer background. This natural patina speaks to the piece's authenticity and considerable age.

The three shallow drawers at the bottom, decorated with bats as a symbol for good fortune, are unusual for this type of cabinet, and offer additional practicality. Inside the cabinet is a single fixed shelf incorporating two further drawers, whilst the bottom storage area can be accessed via a removable board fitted with a simple ring handle.

This is a wonderful piece that would have been produced for a wealthy household in Shanxi and today would bring a wow factor to any interior. Use it as a large drinks cabinet, for bedroom storage or just as a fantastic statement piece in a hallway or reception room.

NB. Select interior scenes were created using AI-generated renderings to illustrate how this antique cabinet may appear in a styled setting. Images on a white background show the actual cabinet.

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Call on: 0800 088 6800 or: 01274 610961

Call on: 0800 088 6800 or: 01274 610961

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ACW-TA-0900523

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