Dongbei, circa 1920

This stunning sideboard showcases exquisite depictions of flora and fauna, expertly painted in gold over a luxurious, red lacquer base. The traditional style hails from China’s Dongbei (northeast) region, and the intricate paintings add a captivating touch to the overall design. The paintings include a pair of fish to symbolise prosperity and butterflies for long life and happiness in a marriage. Towards the bottom of each door are pink lotus flowers, representing honesty and purity as well as, in Buddhist culture, divine love and enlightenment.

The sideboard is typical of the furniture used in Dongbei as altar cabinets, placed below portraits of ancestors and providing a surface for joss sticks or other offerings. Originally only the two central doors would have been in place, but the two panels either side have been converted into additional doors for practicality. There is also a single shelf inside.