Red Lacquer Armoire with Gold Paintings

Shanxi, circa 1770

This stunning, large Chinese armoire is from Shanxi province and is finished in a classic red and gold - colours considered to bring good luck in China. When it was first produced, it would have included just the upper doors, but the lower panel has been adapted more recently to add extra doors for more practical access to the lower part of the cabinet. The upper doors are fitted with round brass hardware - not original but in keeping with the original. The gold painted decoration evidenced here is known as 'miao jin' in Chinese and was a technique that was common in Shanxi. The gold here has almost certainly been retouched in places at some point during the cabinet's lifetime but still looks stunning. The decoration is made up of various flower vases, bronzes and other valuable possessions - designed to show the importance and status of the owner. They are interspersed on the outer panels with circular long life symbols and this is repeated in the wonderful relief carving on the bottom apron, where it is flanked by stylised dragons. A gorgeous cabinet that oozes history and character to make a fantastic accent piece in a modern setting. There is a removable shelf inside the top section.
Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery.