Ming Painted Book Cabinet

A rolled-up scroll or treasured root pot may have once been among the treasured objects stored in this 17th-century book chest. Expertly constructed in China's Shanxi province, the low cabinet exemplifies the clean lines of Ming-dynasty forms. Layer upon layer of cinnabar red lacquer coats the book cabinet, complemented by the soft glimmer of angular brass hardware. Remnants of once-elaborate paintings adorn each panel, depicting scenes of courtly life. Rich with character, we like this cabinet bedside or next to a high-arm sofa filled with a collection of contemporary art books or antique tomes.