Old fir wood console – Shandong, circa 1930

Antique console made of fir wood, traditional Chinese furniture from Shandong, dated around 1930. Originating from Shandong in eastern China, from the early 20th century, where the local fir was crafted using mortise and tenon joinery without nails, featuring framed panel fronts. In the salons and bedrooms of Shandong in the early 20th century, drawer consoles served for discreet storage and as a support for a mirror or a hanging painting. They contained everyday items — writing, grooming, tea — and visually articulated an entire wall. Their typology belongs to the provincial tradition of eastern China. Constructed from solid fir from Shandong using traditional nail-free joinery. The front features three upper drawers with forged iron ring handles, above a lower belt with framed panels. The four legs, slightly tapered square in section, end in hooves. The joinery retains the imprint of provincial furniture from the east. Details. Dimensions: Length 91 cm – Depth 40 cm – Height 84 cm. Style: Chinese provincial furniture. Materials and techniques: Solid fir from Shandong, wrought iron fittings; nail-free mortise and tenon joinery, three front drawers, lower belt with framed panels. Place of origin: Shandong, China. Period: Late Qing dynasty / early Republic of China (circa 1930) Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Condition / Observations: Structure intact. Original patina. Functional fittings. Wear consistent with age and use. Repairs have been made to ensure stability.