Chinese Lacquered Wood Table Stone Top with Carved Essay

About the Item

A Chinese antique table from Northern China likely Shanxi Province circa late Qing dynasty to Republic period (late 19th century). The square form table was constructed with Elm wood and coated with a red lacquer that still largely remains, but displays wonderful crackles, rubbing showing the undercoat. It was likely stabilized at some point historically. The table is of a robust form with strong squared leg support connected with horizonal stretchers. What's highly unusual about this table is that it as an insert stone top that is beautifully carved with a prose of 81 characters called "Lou Shi Ming" (Inscription of The Scholar's Humble Dwelling) by Tang Dynasty poet Liu Yuxi (772-842AD). The table was likely placed in the scholar's studio indicated by the nature of the prose in Chinese literati culture. Historical background: As Minister of Rites at the imperial court Liu Yu Xi (772 – 842 C.E.) took part in the Yong Zhen Reform, which attempted to limit the power of the palace eunuchs and the provincial governors. When the Reform failed, he was demoted to be a mere county administrative officer out in one of the provinces. Upon seeing that he continued to publicly espouse the Reform Movement, the county head placed Liu’s living quarters in the crudest little house with only one room, contrary to existing remuneration regulations for his rank, which called for three chambers and three living rooms. Unbowed, Liu wrote this piece and had it inscribed in stone and erected outside the little house’s door. The prose describes living in a simple dwelling, following a life that is refined in culture and learning and a righteous morality. There are many version of English translation and here is one example: ????, Who heeds the hill's bare height until ????; Some legend grows around the hill? ????, Who cares how deep the stream before ????? Its fame is writ in country lore? ????, And so this humble hut of mine ????? May shelter virtues half divine. ?????, The moss may climb its ruined stair, ?????? And grassy stains the curtain wear, ?????, But scholars at their ease within, ?????? For all but Ignorance enters in, ?????, With simple lute the time beguile, ???? Or "Golden Classic's" page a while. ??????, No discords here their ears assail, ??????? Nor cares of business to bewail. ?????, This is the life the Sages led. ?????? ???:??????? "How were they poor?" Confucius said. (Translated by James Black).

Dimensions:

Height: 20 in (50.8 cm)Width: 30 in (76.2 cm)Depth: 30 in (76.2 cm)

Style:

Chinese Export (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Stone,Wood,Carved

Period:

19th Century

Date of Manufacture:

19th Century

Condition:

Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Good antique condition with charming patina, losses and rubbing on lacquer as shown.