Early Qing Dynasty Chinese Scholar’s Table

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About the Item

This tall and elegant Chinese scholar’s table was once used for calligraphy. The piece is usually simple and pure base on Ming dynasty furniture theory. Round legs were thought to be closer to nature and produced a feeling of calm in the user. The table is made with mortise and tenon joinery, which makes the piece usually sturdy and durable. The surface patina is beautifully aged oxblood lacquer. Oxblood is one of the three traditional Chinese lacquers. Red and black lacquer are opaque. Oxblood lacquer, however, is translucent and displays the wood grain below. Oxblood lacquer is made from actual ox blood dissolved into natural tree sap. The piece dates to the early 1900s. Scholars held a lofty position within pre-communist China’s hierarchical class system. The ability to read and write was a precious commodity enjoyed by a very small section of society--namely, the section of society that could afford the services of a scholar. Scholars were most commonly found in large coastal cities like Beijing and Shanghai. However, there were scholars who taught in remote, rural provinces. They were employed by wealthy landowners, merchants, and members of the aristocracy. Consequently, scholar’s pieces, whether tables or display cabinets, are an especially fine category of Chinese antiques, made with the best of methods and the finest of materials. Scholar’s tables typically feature large surfaces and a height that is comfortable to work at while standing. These proportions could accommodate large scrolls for documents, calligraphy and artwork thus given it the name of a “painting” table.

Dimensions:
Height: 32.68 in (83 cm)Width: 56.7 in (144 cm)Depth: 28.35 in (72 cm)
Style:
Qing (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques:
Elm,Lacquered
Place of Origin:
China
Period:
Early 20th Century
Date of Manufacture:
Early 20th Century
Condition:
Wear consistent with age and use. Minor losses. Minor fading.
Seller Location:
Chicago, IL
Reference Number:
Seller: 151728C0811stDibs: LU886413367381

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