Painted Book Chest

c. 1850
$2,680 USD SOLD
Dimensions
W: 40.0" D: 25.5" H: 27.5"
Materials
Paint
Northern Elmwood
Brass
Lacquer
Collection #
CJN005
Estimated Shipping
$388

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 beautifully painted book chest dates to the 19th century and may have once stood in the grand studio of a scholar-official, filled with books, scrolls, and other valuables. The footing at its base was designed to protect the delicate contents from ground moisture and allow air to circulate beneath the box. Crafted of elmwood with dovetail joinery, the trunk is darkened by a black lacquer finish and exquisitely painted with decorative scrollwork, seasonal flowers, and precious scholars' objects. Richly aged from a century of use, this painted chest is a gorgeous example of a traditional form.

Additional Dimensions:
Top Surface: 39"W x 24.5"D

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