Three Koi Cabinet

Outlined by a border of flowers and gilt scrollwork, a painted panel of three koi fish adorns the front door of this early 20th century chest from Shandong province. This motif of three fish is a visual pun for the "Three Leisures" of one's day, month and year, and represents the admirable pursuit of spending all one's spare time towards studying or self improvement. Painted in a subdued palette of orange, gold, and blue, the decoration is brushed atop a finish of glossy black lacquer, richly textured and lightly faded from years of use. Originally part of a larger cabinet used for household storage, the design has been modified into a compact chest with a front-facing door by our carpenters skilled in traditional joinery. Placed beside a sofa or flanking a bed, the storied cabinet lives on as a practical solution for today.

Additional Dimensions:
Upper Shelf: 8.5"H
Lower Shelf: 6"H