Shanxi, circa 1850

The pure, quite austere design of this cabinet is one that developed early on in China and is usually referred to as a ’round cornered’ style. Rather than using metal hinges, the doors are mounted directly into the cabinet top and the bottom frame on wooden dowels, giving a simple, minimalist look. The full length doors are set in wide, moulded frames and fitted with the original hardware. The cabinet’s black lacquer finish is worn but largely still intact, just revealing the lighter elm wood in parts around the feet and frames. The top surface has a lovely patina, with the lacquer crackled in places to give a wonderful character. The cabinet has a single deep fixed shelf inside, set with two small drawers. In a timeless design that has lasted for centuries in China, the cabinet is in a highly original condition and would grace any interior today.