{"product_id":"painted-lacquer-black-opera-trunk","title":"Painted Lacquer Black Chinese Opera Trunk","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShanxi, circa 1900\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThis beautifully decorated opera chest from Shanxi dates from the early twentieth century, with a black finish worn through in places to reveal the warm wood beneath. Chests of this type are often known as opera chests, as their painted scenes are thought to depict characters and episodes from popular Chinese operas. One popular theory is that they were used by opera troupes to transport their costumes and props as they toured the countryside, but in most cases they were simply used for storage in homes, with the brightly painted scenes providing a colourful decorative element in a bedroom. Here, figures in elaborate traditional costume are picked out in muted red and gold tones, surrounded by floral panels and intricate geometric borders. Further decoration runs across the front edge of the lid. Although softened by age and wear, the paintings retain plenty of detail, giving the chest much of its individual charm.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA simple metal clasp sits at the front of the hinged lid, which lifts to reveal a generous, undivided storage space. Likely used for clothing, bedding and other household textiles, the chest would be a lovely choice today for storing spare linen in a bedroom or throws in a living room and is the right height to double as a side table next to a bed or sofa. Its richly decorated front and mellow patina make it an attractive focal point, bringing warmth and a sense of history to any interior.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Shimu","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":58142846714238,"sku":"ATK-TL-226447","price":1088.95,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0005\/2074\/9113\/files\/ATK-TL-226447b.jpg?v=1790935617","url":"https:\/\/www.shimu.co.uk\/fr-fr\/products\/painted-lacquer-black-opera-trunk","provider":"Shimu","version":"1.0","type":"link"}