Chinese Carved Red Lacquer Qiaotouan Altar Console Table, Circa 1900

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Description

Monumental Chinese altar or console table in the traditional qiaotouan form, distinguished by its long planked top and dramatic everted … Read more Monumental Chinese altar or console table in the traditional qiaotouan form, distinguished by its long planked top and dramatic everted scroll ends.

Dating approximately to the turn of the 20th century, the table features a deep red-brown lacquered surface accented by elaborate parcel-gilt pierced carving. The highly decorative front apron incorporates densely worked auspicious and mythical imagery within scrolling foliage, while carved lotus panels and additional pierced decoration enrich the end supports.

At 81 inches wide, the table has substantial architectural presence while retaining a relatively narrow 20-inch depth, making it particularly effective as an entry, gallery, dining-room or large-wall console.

The surface and carved decoration retain considerable evidence of age and use, including worn lacquer, gilding loss, scratches, chips and old repairs. These elements contribute to the table's aged character rather than presenting as a newly restored finish.

The precise regional origin and wood species have not been established. Dating to circa 1900 is based on construction, form, finish and visible age characteristics and should be considered an informed attribution rather than documentary provenance. See less