Old pine wood buffet - China, c. 1930

Antique low buffet made of pine, Chinese provincial furniture in vermilion lacquer from Gansu, dated around 1930. Originating from Gansu in north-west China, from the early 20th century, where local pine was crafted using traditional mortise and tenon joinery without nails, lacquered in vermilion on the front and sides. In the Hexi corridor, long vermilion lacquered low buffets occupied the main room as auxiliary furniture and as a structural chromatic element of the interior. Red, a colour of good fortune in Chinese culture, marked domestic spaces with familial and ceremonial character. Constructed from solid pine using traditional mortise and tenon joinery, without nails. The case features three central drawers with iron latch handles, an open compartment above the drawers, and two side doors that span the full height of the piece, also with iron handles. The sides are made from solid side panels, without exposed feet. The vermilion lacquer covers the front and sides. Details. Dimensions: Length 154 cm – Depth 22 cm – Height 32 cm. Style: Northwest Chinese provincial furniture. Materials and techniques: Solid pine, vermilion lacquer; mortise and tenon joinery without nails, three central drawers, two side doors, iron latch handles. Place of origin: Gansu (China) Era: Early Republic of China (circa 1930) Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Condition / Observations: Structure intact. Original vermilion lacquer with minor losses and fine cracking. Wear consistent with age and use.