Chinese Antique Coffer From Shanxi Province

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The beauty about Chinese antique furniture is it can have a second life and continues to be functional. This cabinet … Read more The beauty about Chinese antique furniture is it can have a second life and continues to be functional. This cabinet or coffer, made out of solid wood, was once an altar in a home. Its original size would have been almost a foot deeper and it functioned as an altar in a home where homages to the gods were paid. Regions in China have distinctive furniture styles. Shanxi furniture designs stand out for these reasons. First of all, each piece has its own bold look. In this coffer, the eye is immediately drawn to the scroll designs carved on the drawer fronts, the spandrels and the interest "leopard feet." The oldest dated coffer is the 16th century. Each panel of the doors was painted with individual designs. The spandrels and feel were elaborate floral designs. No doubt this later piece here once had similar decor but the original finish has been stripped and for lack of materials this khaki color finished was applied. The second distinctive feature of Shanxi Furniture was the use of solid wood, making the pieces heavy. Since China did not go through the ice age, there are many varieties of wood so it is hard to make an identification. Thirdly, Shanxi furniture is older and well constructed so fear of cracking is not a concern. Notice the double joinery.

The finish of the piece may not be appealing, but a change of color will give new life to this attractive coffer with good storage. It can be in any room of the home. See less