Black Lacquer Book Chest

A rolled-up scroll or treasured root pot may have once been among the erudite objects stored in this stately 19th-century book chest. Expertly constructed of northern elm (yumu) with mortise-and-tenon joinery, the low cabinet is minimally decorated save for an exterior layer of dark black lacquer. The passing of time has imparted a beautifully weathered texture to the lacquer finish, now heavily crazed and worn in places to reveal the warm brown color of the elm underneath. The small cabinet is faced with two doors that open to reveal a single interior shelf and sits on a footed base that kept its contents dry and elevated.

Brass hardware is replacement. Significant restoration to lacquer finish.

Additional Dimensions:
Opening: 28"W x 19"D x 27.75"H