A charming Chinese red lacquered wood jewelry box from the mid-20th century, circa 1950, combining useful storage with richly carved decorative details. The rectangular tabletop cabinet features three drawers arranged with two smaller drawers above a single full-width lower drawer. Each is fitted with a traditional metal ring pull set against a shaped backplate.
Above the drawers is an open compartment surrounded by a raised gallery, creating additional space for displaying or storing small objects. Pierced and carved panels decorate the front, sides and back of the gallery with stylized birds, animals and scrolling floral motifs. The upright supports are finished with carved decorative caps, adding further detail to the compact architectural form.
The warm red lacquered surface has developed considerable character, with areas of rubbing, scratches, small losses and tonal variation that allow glimpses of the underlying wood and earlier layers of finish. These natural signs of age give the piece a particularly attractive, time-worn appearance.
Compact enough for a dressing table, desk or console, the cabinet can be used for jewelry, small collectibles, correspondence or personal accessories.
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Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes