Painted Lacquer Trunk

Trunks and storage chests were the most ubiquitous form of household storage throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Used to store clothes, linens, kitchen utensils, and other miscellaneous items, trunks were found in every room in the home and were often stacked on top of one another. This example dates to the late 19th century and finished with a rich layer of glossy red lacquer. The front of the trunk is painted with a loosely brushed abstract floral design, framed by a metal trim along the edges. The other exterior sides are painted with wavy linework dotted with floral motifs. Gently worn from age and use, this folk trunk adds wonderful color and texture to modern interiors.