Seven Drawer Kang Cabinet

This low seven-drawer chest dates to the late 19th century and is crafted of northern elm (yumu) using traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery methods. The low cabinet features seven drawers enclosed by a stepped apron and an expansive floating-panel top. Only traces of the original black lacquer finish remain, showcasing the natural warm coloring of yumu elm.

In a traditional northern Chinese home, this type of chest would have been placed beside a raised platform called a kang, which was used as a sleeping and living space. Likely used to store dishware, linens, and other useful objects, this elegant chest would have been the at center of daily life.