An Anglo-Chinese Huanghuali Bureau Cabinet

QIANLONG CIRCA 1770 PROBABLY CANTON OR MACAU

Retaining its original exterior Paktong metalwork this cabinet is also notable for its attractive grain and fine chocolate brown patina which display the prized Huanghuali wood in its most desirable state.

Furthermore, the Chinese inspired carved moulding to the cornice, the raised panels to the interior doors, the stationery compartments in the upper section, together with the door and curved corner drawers to the bureau section all add to the sophistication of this cabinet.

A rare cabinet of charmingly diminutive proportions, the carved cornice sits above a pair of glazed and panelled doors enclosing stationary compartments, adjustable bookshelves and a pair of drawers. The bureau has a sloping fall which opens to reveal a well fitted interior of arched pigeon holes and seven drawers flanking a central cupboard door. This leads to a long drawer flanked by pull out fall supports, above two short drawers and a further two long drawers. The whole is supported on bracket feet. The glazing is 19thc and one shelf has been replaced.

Measurements: Height 61 ½” (156cm) width 30 ¾” (78) depth 21” (53.5cm)

Huanghuali is a highly prized timber predominantly found on the island of Hainan in the South China sea and was the wood of choice for the Imperial household and the elite during the Ming and Qing dynasties.


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