Two Drawer Walnut Side Cabinet From Shanxi - 19th Century

This exquisite Chinese walnut cabinet is an excellent early to mid Qing dynasty (1644 - 1911)  (1644 - 1911) piece from Shanxi province. It is constructed from primarily walnut wood (hetaomu) with parts of red elm. Walnut pieces in Shanxi province were often reserved for the most important citizens. This was due to Shanxi being isolated from the rest of China with no access to The Grand Canal and thus very limited access to highly desirable hardwoods such as huali & huanghuali. Walnut is sometimes known as 'fake huanghuali' and the very best Shanxi furniture was constructed from walnut wood. 

The interior features a spacious main compartment, divided by a single shelf, and the two drawers above add additional storage. A beautifully carved apron at the base adds a touch of distinctive character. 

Originally this piece was lacquered which has long since worn away. It has a beautiful patina which we've been careful to retain during the restoration process. The cabinet has been reduced in depth during its lifetime to make it fit into a smaller home.

This is a real collectors piece and something rarely found these days. 

References:
A similar example can be found in "Chinese Household Furniture" by George N. Kates (Fig. 27).

From China
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