Antique low cabinet with painted flowers in pine wood – China, circa 1900

This antique low cabinet with painted flowers made of pine wood is a Chinese kang furniture piece with three drawers, two flowered doors, and an open central niche. It originates from northern China, from the Qing dynasty, where the pine was finished in mustard yellow lacquer and highlighted in black. Its dimensions correspond to the furniture placed on the kang itself, against the wall, to keep sewing, writing instruments, or small utensils within reach. The case is made of solid pine, assembled with mortise and tenon joints. Three drawers align beneath the central niche, which retains its shelf. Two panelled doors close the side modules, and the handles are iron rings on rosettes. The profiles and mouldings are lacquered in black. The doors feature bouquets of white and pink lilies with green leaves; the drawer fronts display continuous garlands of pink and white peonies (mudan 牡丹). The peony is the queen flower, emblematic of prosperity. The touch is fine, with outlined petals and a light filling, against the mustard yellow background. The ochre lacquer has taken on a warm glaze, and the black profiles have become matte. The flowers retain their design but have lost saturation. The top shows old water stains and consistent wear. Its minimal depth is suitable for a narrow hallway, a bed foot, or a living room where a classic console would not fit. It is an accent piece, small in volume. Details. Dimensions: Length 150 cm – Depth 21 cm – Height 28 cm. Style: Painted Chinese. Materials and techniques: Pine wood; wrought iron fittings; mortise and tenon assembly; ochre and black lacquer; hand-painted floral decoration. Place of origin: China. Period: Qing dynasty. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good. Original lacquer and paint with loss of saturation and old stains on the top. Wear consistent with age and use.