Antique low elm wood furniture – China, around 1900

This antique low furniture made of elm is a Chinese piece in red lacquer with a golden floral decoration. It originates from northern China, from the Qing dynasty, when elm was lacquered and painted 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, and an open central niche. The doors retain their iron ring handles. The doors feature painted and gilded floral bouquets on the red lacquer. The floral motif is characteristic of Chinese folk furniture, associated with prosperity. The red lacquer has worn away to reveal the wood, with a warm patina and an earthy tone. The surface appears authentic, without restoration that obscures it. Due to its low and elongated proportion, 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 153 cm – Depth 18 cm – Height 25 cm. Style: Painted Chinese. Materials and techniques: Elm wood; iron fittings; red lacquer; mortise and tenon joints; painted and gilded decoration. Place of origin: China. Period: Qing dynasty. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good. Worn red lacquer with gilded floral decoration, visible wood and warm patina. Wear consistent with age and use.