Chinese Hardwood Altar Table with Clouds and Dragons, c. 1900

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This elegant console table was expertly crafted over 150 years ago and likely served as a family’s home altar where … Read more This elegant console table was expertly crafted over 150 years ago and likely served as a family’s home altar where they paid their respects to revered ancestors. The top is comprised of a solid plank of hardwood decorated with a finely beaded trim and everted flanges at either end. The table stands on straight recessed legs inset with fretwork panels and topped with large spiral-form spandrels resembling billowing clouds. The side panels are carved with a whimsical design of a mythical dragon amid swirling clouds, a classic motif of power and good fortune. The fine altar table has its original coat of glossy dark brown lacquer, now lustrously-aged with subtle crazing and fantastic character. See less