This statement pair of storage trunks from northern China accent modern interiors with rich color, hand-painted artistry and a weathered texture that only time can achieve. Dated to the early 19th century, the low chests would have been used for everyday storage of clothing, bedding, books, or other household goods.
Though not an exact match, these unusual trunks play off of each other beautifully, configured with the identical dimensions and harmonious color palettes. Heavily crazed from age and use, the once vibrant finish of red and black lacquer has mellowed over the years, now richly aged with a worn texture and dark patina. The fronts of both chests are painted with a central motif of a young body sitting in a lotus blossom, surrounded by peony blossoms and floral scrollwork. A common design in Chinese art, this boy & lotus motif conveys the idiom "may my descendants live in harmony."
Below, three shallow drawers open by tear-shaped brass pulls, each painted with a flower or offering fruit, including peaches, pomegranates, melons and citron. Each trunk is elevated by short apron carved with cabriole legs and simple scrollwork, likely a later modification to bring the antique trunk to a more conventional height.
Additional Dimensions:
Interior: 33"W x 18.25"D x 12.5"H
Drawers: 8.5"W x 16.5"D x 2.5"H
