Antique low pine wood furniture – China, circa 1900

This antique low pine wood furniture is a Chinese kang piece with three drawers, two side doors, and an exposed central shelf. It originates from northern China, from the Qing dynasty, where the pine was joined with mortise and tenon joints and then protected with red lacquer. The composition divides the front into three distinct functions: what is stored away is behind the doors, the small and frequently used items are in the drawers, and what is used daily remains visible on the central shelf. This represents a domestic hierarchy, not a decorative one. The case is made of solid pine, with rounded upper corners and feet extending from the uprights. The drawers retain their original bottoms and are constructed with dovetail joints. The handles are iron rings on rosettes, and the apron beneath the drawers is shaped with a gentle curve. From the original red lacquer, mainly the back of the central shelf remains, protected from wear; elsewhere it has disappeared, revealing the pine in a darkened honey tone. The top shows signs of use and an open joint along its length. In a light interior, the open shelf visually lightens the room and avoids a massive block effect. Details. Dimensions: Length 150 cm – Depth 22 cm – Height 38 cm. Style: Chinese Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Pine wood; wrought iron fittings; mortise and tenon and dovetail joints; remnants of red lacquer. Place of origin: China. Period: Qing Dynasty. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good. Red lacquer preserved only in the central shelf; exposed wood elsewhere and an open joint on the top. Wear consistent with age and use.