Antique 19th-century Chinese secretary with dragon woodcarving
- Dimensions :
- H127 x W99 x D53
- Color :
- wooden
- Material :
- wood
- Style :
- ethnic
A truly unique item, this antique Chinese bureau features a variety of handcrafted wood carvings all around, depicting various traditional Chinese images. For example, a large salamander dragon adorns the front (there are several types of dragons). This is a very traditional type of dragon, often found in Chinese mythology. It is depicted around the bureau in various ways. Chinese symbols are also depicted around it, such as the Shou symbol, which represents longevity. Other symbols are unknown to me. The bureau is made of Huang Huali wood, a Chinese version of rosewood also known as "yellow flowering pear," named after its yellow color and the aroma it sometimes releases. This hardwood is easy to work with, though it is difficult to obtain nowadays. On the back are two old stickers from places where the bureau was previously offered for sale. I can't find any information about one, but Millar and Beatty's came up with a lot of information. This was a Dublin-based company that offered high-end furniture, art, and decorations. The company had existed since 1851 and became Hardy and Company in 1952, before closing shortly thereafter. In its heyday, the company held a royal title. The bureau dates from around the end of the 19th century. They are very rare and difficult to find in good condition. In short, a truly unique item, perfect for a unique interior.