Painted Red Lacquer Cabinet

Crafted in the mid-19th century, this tall cabinet has a clean-lined form, designed with straight sides, square corners and minimal carvings. The cabinet front is cloaked in a bright, cinnabar-red lacquer finish, contrasted by black lacquer sides and a brass lock plate. The vibrant red lacquer provides the perfect canvas for hand-painted gilt decoration, now considerably faded from years of use. Flora and fauna of the four seasons decorate the doors, including songbirds perched on plum branches and peacocks shaded by peony blossoms. The apron is carved in low relief with geometric scrollwork ending in archaistic dragon heads. The lacquer finish has aged beautifully, with a wondrous patina and rich character. A storied addition to the modern home, the cabinet offers ample storage with three shelves, two shallow drawers, and a deep lower compartment, all finished with black lacquer.

Significant wear to original lacquer finish.