Antique low buffet carved from fir wood – China, circa 1930

This antique low buffet carved from fir wood features a front with dense geometric relief carving and traces of preserved vermilion red paint in the reliefs. It originates from north-western China, dating from the end of the Qing dynasty, where fir was worked using a traditional mortise and tenon assembly. The carved furniture from north-western China combined dense geometric carving with polychromy applied to the reliefs. The vermilion red paint on the carving—common on buffets, chests, and tables—highlighted the recesses of the decoration and added chromatic depth to the surface. Subsequent wear has left a layered balance between the wood, traces of pigment, and the natural oxidation of the fittings. The body is constructed from solid fir. The front face is entirely carved in flat relief with diamond-shaped geometric patterns, parallel lines, and continuous friezes. The internal structure is organised with two doors and horizontal crosspieces. The fittings are made of wrought iron. The assembly is a traditional Chinese mortise and tenon construction, without screws. Details. Dimensions: Length 196 cm – Depth 40 cm – Height 64 cm. Style: Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Solid fir; wrought iron fittings; traditional Chinese mortise and tenon assembly; dense geometric carving with traces of vermilion red paint. Place of origin: China. Period: End of the Qing dynasty / Early Republic. Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Condition / Observations: Good. Worn vermilion red paint and preserved dense geometric carving. Wear consistent with age and use.