Antique Chinese Lacquered Hide Scholar's Trunk, Early 20th Century

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Trunks and storage chests were the most ubiquitous form of household storage throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Used to … Read more Trunks and storage chests were the most ubiquitous form of household storage throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Used to store clothes, linens, and personal effects, trunks were found in every room in the home and were often stacked high atop one another.

This antique Chinese trunk dates to c. 1900-1910 and has a simple, rectangular form ideal for stacking or traveling. For a water-tight seal, the wooden frame is enveloped in a layer of hand-stitched hide and brushed with several layers of red-brown lacquer.

Subtle details impart a vintage charm - such as the hide patches at each corner, the maker's stamp on the front, or the faded painting of a robed scholar-official. Brass drop handles hand from either end and a round lock plate secures the lid, cast in low relief with lotus flowers, folk symbols and auspicious objects. The interior is lined with vintage pink fabric printed with a charming pattern of peach blossoms and dots. Years of use have imparted a lovely antique patina, from the oxidization of the original brass hardware to the softly faded lacquer finish. See less