SOLD - Large Rose Wood Side Table

Jiangsu Province, early C20th

Dimensions: W:196.5 D:35.5 H:86 (cm)
Reference: T287
  • Description

    This long impressive rose wood side table 0f  austere luminosity adapst exceptionally well to contemporary interiors. Its stature suggests it was a significant piece in a prominent household in Jiangsu Province.  

    The beautiful grain of the thick single plank table top has elegant and understated everted ends. The legs are slightly flared and given strength by both footbase and inset panels decorated by large and dramatic fortuitous ruyi carvings. The front of all legs are slightly bevelled with beaded sides. Traces of lacquer remain on the table surfaces. Original lacquer is underneath the plank.

    There are four curled cloud design apron-head spandrels. The spandrels may have been replaced over time.  Two spandrels are seamlessly attached and the other two have slight edges.  There are two fortuitous traditional ruyi head carvings between the legs. One ruyi has a fine crack but bear in mind the thick ruyi carving is strong.

    This piece is from Jiangsu, possibly its capital Nanjing, which was China’s capital in the early Ming Dynasty (1368-1644), and remained the designated capital of Southern China after the dynastic capital moved to Beijing. Western collectors often call this table style an altar table. However this can be considered a misnomer, as the eminent Chinese furniture historian Sarah Handler makes clear, as it was also used in a wide variety of non-religious roles within the house. In C17th they were called “bizhou” or “wall table” . Handler calls them side tables, as they are multi functional and can even be designed to be seen in the round.  

  • Print

…impressive and important…

  • 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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