Side Table with Inverted Sword Legs

Shanxi Province, C19th

Dimensions: W:141 D:28 H:84 (cm)
Reference: T347

£3,500

  • Description

    An elegant classic design of exceptional craftsmanship, which in contemporary homes serves well as an entrance table, or small side table.  

    A defining decorative feature is the well defined fortuitous ruyi carving at the centre of the curvilinear apron. 

     A beautiful patina is present overall; traces of the original lacquer remain on the defined elm grain.

    The table has “inverted sword” legs, a strong piece of carpentry evolved from the Five Dynasty and Ten Kingdoms period (907-23).

    In looking how the top of each leg is connected to the apron, one can see that the top of the leg which joins the apron resembles the tip of a sword. 

    Delicate everted flanges lighten the top, while the curvilinear apron is deeply cut to reveal small delicate and fortuitous cloud spandrels. 

    Fine beading runs along the edges of the apron and legs, which accentuates the vertical axis. This is complemented by the double incense stick beading, raised in relief, down the centre of the legs and end in a fortuitous gourd shape. The table stands on delicate small lotus pad like feet. 

  • Print

…finely carved form, enhanced by classic Chinese symbolism…

  • 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
image-feature-point-2.jpg?w=746&h=1024&scale

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.

image-sharon-2-square