Large Red Lacquered Cabinet with Gilt Painting

Shanxi Province, C19th

Dimensions: W:124 D:66 H:181 (cm)
Interior with shelf removed H149 W119 D55
Reference: C164

£3,750

  • Description

    This classic square edged red lacquered cabinet with warm patina of faded gilt decorative painting reveals an idyllic landscape of courtyard home living. Originally this piece had prominent presence in the home.

    The faded scenes represent harmony within the family itself, and between the family and the natural world. To both followers of Buddhism and Confucianism this represents a pinnacle in order, and peaceful living.

    The doors are framed by a detailed floral border pattern, featuring a butterfly at the top. The butterfly is symbolic in China of joy and marital happiness, while the floral motif represents fertility and prosperity.  There are three roundels at the bottom, which would originally have framed decorative gilt paintings. The black lacquer undercoat is revealed in parts.

    The metal locking plate, which has been replaced at some stage, is shaped to reflect the lines of both butterfly and floral motifs, with soft curves and symmetry that gives a visual centre to the piece, while enhancing the delicate painting on the doors. The design has no central stile, indicating that the cabinet was used to store the larger items that could be laid flat directly on the shelf.

  • Print

…warm patina of faded original but once sumptuous gilt decorative painting…

  • Rare genuine antiques
  • Highly appreciated sympathetic restoration
  • International delivery available
  • Over many years I have found Sharon’s treasure trove of Chinese furniture a wonderful insight into China’s history and heritage. Each piece tells a story of bygone days and I only wish I had more space to accommodate even more items.

    Lou Tabor
  • We are absolutely delighted with the our tall red lacquered leather Chinese hat-box we purchased from Sharon Fitzsimmons. We were looking for an interesting and unusual piece, and this absolutely fits the brief. The quality, colour and size are perfect for our needs, both in appearance and as a useful side-table. Not only that, but we have an interesting talking point for our guests!

    Peter and Joanna Ruddock
  • I have a modern house and the clean lines of antique Chinese furniture suit it very well. The occasional red lacquer piece looks striking, such as a coffer I use as a sideboard in my dining area. I particularly love a pair of narrow, columnar walnut Gansu cabinets and I think they will enhance a contemporary walnut dining table I am awaiting delivery. I like the visual interest of old wood and mixing old and new adds character to a decor.

    Tina MacFarlane
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Why Choose a Piece from the Collection

We have a rigorous selection criteria that every late Qing Dysnasty (1644-1911) piece must meet: authenticity, rarity, originality, function and fine craftsmanship. The provenance varies but is mostly Shanxi Province, a region renowned for Qing furniture. We offer diversity, and styles range from classical to vernacular. Over the many years the true testimony of our selection process is that customers are more than satisfied, and are often repeat buyers, as pieces are consistently proven to enhance interiors.

Restoration as Conservation of Antiques

Dedicated singlemindedness in carefully and painstakingly restoring every single antique, simple or complex, has resulted in a sympathetic conservation of antiques, pleasingly meeting customers satisfaction. Our restorers have an understanding of the original craftsman’s skills such as joinery, lacquering, carving, painting and other age old carpentry ways. Each restoration is done by experienced and skilled craftsmen with great attention to detail. On completion each piece is a stand alone form, with presence, integrity and artistic personality.

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