The bright red lacquer finish and geometric paintings on this stunning sideboard are typical of cabinets produced in the northeast 'Dongbei' region of China. Used for storage and often doubling as home altars for offerings to ancestors, these pieces are easily recognisable. This particular sideboard is more unusual in that the two half board panels in the top are still removable rather than being fixed as part of the restoration. These would have provided the only access to the inside originally. The paintings on the doors, divided into sections and framed in gold, show various flowers including peonies to denote high rank and pomegranates for fertility. The designs on the outer frames include good luck symbols and 'eternal knots' to represent longevity. The greens, blues and golds used provide a highly striking effect against the red lacquer background. Four doors have been added at the front from the original fixed panels and a full width shelf fitted inside, making this an eye-catching, colourful storage option in any space.

Last updated: 03/09/25

floral

antique

asian