Antique low elm wood furniture – China, around 1900

This antique low cabinet made of elm wood is a Chinese piece with lacquer, featuring central drawers and an open niche. It originates from northern China, from the Qing dynasty, when elm was lacquered for domestic furniture. These low and elongated pieces were used close to the ground, near the kang or against the wall, to store and display household items. The reduced height corresponds to a domestic life on mats and platforms. The body is made of solid elm, with mortise and tenon joints, two side doors, a central niche, and a row of drawers. The doors retain their iron ring handles. The lacquer has worn away to reveal the wood in large areas, with remnants of colour and a warm patina. The surface appears authentic, without any restoration that obscures it. Due to its low and elongated proportions, it can be used as a living room piece, a television stand, or a storage console. It fits into wabi-sabi, japandi, and rustic interiors, where it adds warmth and texture. Details Dimensions: Length 154 cm – Depth 22 cm – Height 28 cm Style: Chinese Materials and techniques: Elm wood; iron fittings; lacquer; mortise and tenon joints. Place of origin: China Period: Qing dynasty Date of manufacture: Circa 1900 Condition / Observations: Good. Worn lacquer revealing the wood in large areas, remnants of colour and warm patina. Wear consistent with age and use.