Mid-20th Century Chinese Solid Wood Carved Rice Bucket With Locking Lid

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A Note for the Curators: This example retains all three original components (bucket body, octagonal lid, and carved slide-locking handle), … Read more A Note for the Curators: This example retains all three original components (bucket body, octagonal lid, and carved slide-locking handle), which is increasingly rare for provincial vessels of this era.

A beautifully preserved piece of mid-century Asian provincial history, this exceptional Chinese rice bucket dates to the 1950s–1960s. Handcrafted from substantial solid wood with rustic iron horizontal structural banding, it showcases a stunning deep espresso patina that highlights decades of authentic character while remaining comfortably lightweight.
What sets this particular piece apart is its complete, highly functional three-piece design and exquisite hand-carved ornamentation. The front face features a deeply carved circular medallion depicting traditional folk bird and floral motifs. The bucket is designed with two integrated wooden support ears extending vertically from the body. The intricately carved horizontal lifting handle drops into these slotted ears, seamlessly securing the flush-fitting wooden lid in place via an authentic, age-old interlocking peg mechanism.
Equal parts sculptural artistry and functional storage, this wabi-sabi vessel makes a striking statement piece for an elegant contemporary living room, entryway console, or sophisticated kitchen styling. See less