Tibetan Red & Green Longevity Coffer, c. 1850

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...

This elegant 19th-century coffer was crafted of elm (yumu) with a square corner frame and four doors, each decorated with a traditional bird-and-flower painting. The serene garden vi...

This gorgeous black lacquer coffer from China's Hebei province may have begun its life as part of a dowry. Dated to the mid-19th century, the coffer was likely used as both an altar for ancestor worship and as a storage cabinet for clothes...

Chinese artisans often weave stories and symbolism into their furniture designs. In Mandarin, the words for "eight" and "luck" share a pronunciation, making this coffer a powerful sy...

Antique Tibetan Small Elm Red Lacquer 2 Door Chest This small elm wood cabinet from Tibet was used as storage for valuables and important documents. Orig...

Antique Shanxi Province Winged Red Lacquer Painted Small Cabinet The Antique Shanxi Province Winged Red Lacquer Painted Small Cabinet is a captivating piece showcasing the exquisite...

Antique Shanxi Province Red Lacquered & Elmwood Hand Painted Design Sideboard  

This red lacquered sideboard originated from Shanxi province, China, and from its size it was most likely placed in the main hall of a well-to-do family. The original red lacquer hav...