Shanxi, circa 1880

This unusual cabinet, with a bottom shelf, drawers and two sets of doors, would have been used originally to store food and other items in a kitchen. It is from Shanxi province in central China and made from elm wood – still with its old finish but now worn in parts to show the paler wood underneath. The doors and drawers are set back inside the frames, with small door handles (more recent replacements) fitted centrally. The lower cupboard and the upper section behind lattice panelled doors both have a single removable shelf. Great for storing books, games or as a drinks cabinet.