Black Lacquer Gold Painted Shanxi Cabinet

Shanxi, circa 1860

This extraordinary antique cabinet is from Shanxi province in central China, where it would most likely have been produced as part of a dowry for a bride, filled with silks, fabrics and other expensive gifts. The black lacquer finish and detailed paintings, depicting various bronzes, vases and other scholarly symbols along with flowers and various figures, are original, while the door hardware is likely a more recent replacement. The paintings would once have been in more vibrant colours, but have aged and faded to a more subtle palette against the black background. Gold leaf was applied as part of the decoration in a traditional method, and this is still visible, used to pick out the various characters from Chinese folklore painted on the outer frames, as well as the circular symbols for long life and good luck across the top.

The paintings on the doors are  worn but still superbly detailed. They incorporate further characters from Chinese legend, either standing or on horseback, with an array of curios - bronze vessels and vases, that denoted the status of the owner. Once vivid blues and reds enhanced with the bright gold would have stood out beautifully against the dark surface of the cabinet, but now have a more understated, aged look that would fit well into a period home. The cabinet has a single fixed shelf inside, incorporating two shallow drawers. The space at the bottom of the cabinet, behind the front panel beneath the doors, can be accessed by removing a half board, providing an additional hidden storage compartment.

This is a wonderful piece that would have been produced for a wealthy household in Shanxi and today would bring a wow factor to any interior. Use it as a large drinks cabinet, for bedroom storage or just as a fantastic statement piece in a hallway or reception room.