Red and Gold Shrine Chest

Coat upon coat of red, black and yellow lacquer was hand-applied to this 19th-century footed trunk likely originated as a display stand and storage chest in an elaborate shrine display. Placed to the side of the altar, the chest may have held ancestral tablets and incense and provided an additional surface for offerings, censers and figures The low chest has a rectangular form and stands on four short cabriole legs ending in carved hoof feet. The chest opens by a single front drawer with a simple brass drop handle. The trunk’s exterior is finished with a thin coat of red and black lacquer, accented by a gilt border along the sides. Beautifully weathered from a century of use, this provincial shrine chest adds incredible texture to modern interiors as a plant stand or side table.

From the collection of Frances and Gary Comer.