Antique Chinese Scholar's Cabinet, Kuang Hsu Period, circa 1875

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Antique Chinese Scholar's Cabinet, Kuang Hsu Period, circa 1875

About the Item

Receive our new selections direct from 1stdibs by email each week. Please click follow dealer below and see them first! A rare antique Chinese scholar's cabinet from the Kuang Hsu period, circa 1875. Please notice the unusual combination of the open display shelf that extends the width of this cabinet as well as the lower open area. The border around each space is enhanced with a carved edge of symmetrical pattern and was used to showcase precious objects collected by the owner both for private contemplation as well as for visitor's to notice the owner's taste and discernment. The upper section contains a pair of drawers with handsome carving to both of the fronts with the handles placed in the centre of each drawer for balance. The open section at the base is flanked on both sides with a cabinet door with carved details but also affixed with a lavish display of bronzed metal both for the hinges and the pulls to open the doors. Again notice the balanced placement of the hardware in relation to the entire piece and the manner in which a sense of harmony is achieved. The apron at the bottom also shows a symmetrical pattern with scroll like undulations used to centre the decoration and elevate the cabinet from the floor. The sides of the cabinet showcase a carved design that extends the full length and enclose carved designs that match focusing on facing flowers and plants. The one asymmetrical element is the large bird swooping down to drink nectar from the open blossoms with outstretched wings placed in a naturalistic pose. This design animates the sides and creates visual excitement. The shallow depth of the cabinet is a major aspect of its appeal and it was obviously designed to be seen from both the front and the sides given the attention expended on their surface ornamentation. The cabinet retains its original lacquered and painted finish and the depth of the colour remains tremendously attractive. Whether used as a server or console table this piece has a myriad of applications in an interior where its unusual qualities will be immediately visible.

Dimensions:
Height: 37 in (93.98 cm)Width: 46.5 in (118.11 cm)Depth: 14 in (35.56 cm)
Style:
Qing (In the Style Of)
Materials and Techniques:
Iron,Wood,Carved,Embossed,Lacquered
Place of Origin:
China
Period:
19th Century
Date of Manufacture:
circa 1875
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use.
Seller Location:
Houston, TX
Reference Number:
Seller: HKA7861stDibs: U1105238668483