Antique Korean Elm Jang Cabinet with Iron Mounts, 1900

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A wonderfully characterful Korean elm storage cabinet or Jang (장), dating to the late Joseon / early 20th-century period, circa … Read more A wonderfully characterful Korean elm storage cabinet or Jang (장), dating to the late Joseon / early 20th-century period, circa 1890–1920. Of tall architectural form, the cabinet is constructed from beautifully figured timber retaining a warm, naturally aged surface, the pair of substantial doors opening to reveal a remarkably generous interior fitted with three shelves, above two useful lower drawers. The façade is particularly striking for its extensive hand-worked iron furniture, with broad reinforcing straps punctuated by numerous decorative bosses, elaborate pierced and shaped plates and a substantial central locking hasp. Most charming are the pair of large circular door pulls suspended from wonderfully sculptural animal-mask mounts, lending the otherwise restrained cabinet considerable personality. Korean furniture of the late Joseon period frequently employed iron fittings both structurally and decoratively, with different regions developing recognisable traditions of metalwork and construction The cabinet retains a pleasingly honest character throughout, with the reverse revealing traditional framed construction and broad aged timber boards. The restrained arched cornice, wonderfully expressive grain and extraordinary density of ironwork combine to produce a piece with considerable presence. Both decorative and highly practical, it would work equally well today as a linen press, drinks cabinet, book cupboard or statement storage piece. Korea, late Joseon / early 20th century, circa 1890–1920.

Dimensions Height: 190.5cm Width: 110cm Depth: 59cm All measurements are taken at the widest points. See less