Scholar's Studio Trunk

Trunks and storage chests were the most ubiquitous form of household storage throughout the Ming and Qing dynasties. Used to store clothes, linens, kitchen utensils, and other miscellaneous items, trunks were found in every room in the home and were often stacked on top of one another.

This lacquered trunk dates to the early 20th century and is subtly decorated with an array of treasured items. The front is adorned with the precious objects of a scholars' studio, including a vase filled with peonies, a lingbi scholars' rock, and a bronze censer filled with brushes and scrolls. Heavily worn from age and use, this antique trunk nevertheless charms with a fantastic patina and quiet decoration.