Painted Mongolian Coffer, c. 1900

This low two-drawer chest is a 19th-century coffer from northern China or Mongolia and was repainted with bright colors in the early 20th century in the style of Tibetan painted furniture. The top surface has been painted with verdant mountainous landscape dotted with grazing animals, colorful flowers and dancing figures. Crashing waves churn along a river in the foreground and plumes of smoke billow from hilltop fires in the distance. The front panels and drawers are painted with intricate scrollwork and ribbon-clad Buddhist auspicious symbols, including the parasol, the treasure vase, the conch shell, the endless knot, the pair of golden fishes, the banner of victory, and the wheel of life. These symbols of good fortune represent the offerings that were made by the gods to Shakyamuni Buddha when he attained enlightenment. The sides are painted with a lotus flower surrounding the Three Jewels...

Dated to the late 19th century, this vibrant red coffer was likely used as both an altar for ancestor worship and as a storage cabinet for clothes, textiles, and other household items. The large coffer is crafted of northern elm with straight sides, an expansive floating-panel top, and ornately-carved gilt aprons. The center apron is carved with a pierced design of ribbon-clad scholars’ objects consisting of books, scrolls, and a weiqi game...

Spectacular hand crafted and painted sideboard cabinet from Tibet. 5 drawers total with a roomy double door cabinet space. Ancient wooden sides and top. A wonderful piece of functio...

A rare and bright blanket chest in brilliant reds contrasted with blacks. The decoration is nicely painted with urns and flowers flanked by pillars and ...