Chinese Trailing Clouds Altar Coffer, C. 1850

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Topped with offerings of food, burning incense, and painted images of the deceased, this enchanting coffer played a central role … Read more Topped with offerings of food, burning incense, and painted images of the deceased, this enchanting coffer played a central role in Chinese ancestor worship. Handcrafted of northern elmwood in China's Shanxi province, this 19th-century coffer was masterfully constructed with traditional mortise and tenon joinery and ornamented with detailed carvings. Flowing gracefully along the coffer's straight legs, the intricately carved apron and spandrels swirl with lattice-like patterns of trailing clouds. Perfect as a console or center table, we love the way its sacred history and visual complexity enrich a modern room. See less