Matching Six-Drawer Apothecaries

Shanxi Province, C19th

Dimensions: W:28.5 D:20 H:30 (cm)
Reference: B281

£995

  • Description

    These small matching apothecary treasures for couples or an individual have such fascinating uses; as a medicine and jewellery box, cufflink and watch box, or on a desk for pens and stationery.

    Originally in China, these apothecaries, each with six long drawers, were used for herbal medicine storage.  Today they offer a myriad of practical uses and even make a wonderful and original wedding gift.

    Chinese apothecaries are a collector’s favourite.  Traces of the original lacquer remain on the elm wood. The tenons are visible thereby showcasing traditional joinery of Chinese antique furniture and architecture in miniature. The original metal ware is simple, functional and refined with flat oval pulls and elegant bail handles.

    In its original state, these boxes may have had a lockable front plate to keep the six long deep drawers secure, and contents private. Given their small size, they were conveniently portable when travelling.

  • Print

…a delightful pair, perfect for a couple…

  • 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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