Carved Coffer Table From Shanxi - 18th Century

This antique Chinese coffer table dates to the 18th century. It is from Shanxi province and has carved panels and fretwork. The carving depicts two facing Qilin, a mythical beast with the head of a dragon, antlers, manes and the body of an ox or horse. Qilin were associated with greatness and only appeared during the reign of a successful ruler, or at the birth or death of a great sage. 

The top is constructed from Northern Elm (yumu) whilst the front panels, drawers & sides are constructed from paulownia wood. It has retained its original brass hardware which would have allowed it to be locked. This piece has been restored in our workshops and partial loss can be seen on the left spandrel.

Coffer tables in China had relatively little written about them as they were mostly used for clothes and utensil storage by women & servants. Furniture was expensive and reserved for the most wealthy.

References:

For a similar table see Fig 103 of Traditional Chinese Furniture From The Greater Shanxi Region by C.L. Ma