Antique buffet painted in pine wood – China, circa 1930

This antique painted pine sideboard features two doors with floral compositions painted on a cream background and two aligned lower drawers. It originates from northern China, dating from the end of the Qing dynasty, where the pine was crafted using traditional mortise and tenon joinery. Chinese painted furniture with a light palette—cream and off-white backgrounds—characterised the north-west corridor in the 19th century and early 20th century. The high palette allowed for the composition of floral bouquets in pink and green ink with a light, almost watercolour treatment. Sideboards with two doors and lower drawers combined functional storage with decorative presence in the main room. The body is constructed from solid pine. The front features two identical doors with a peripheral frame and a central painted panel, above two aligned lower drawers. The fittings are made of forged iron in a ring style. The structure has solid sides ending in straight feet. The joinery is traditional Chinese mortise and tenon, without screws. The painted decoration on the panels displays floral compositions in pinks and greens on a cream background, arranged in free bouquets with a light treatment and background vegetation. The flowers appear unframed, and the overall effect evokes a more intimate decorative register than that of classic lacquered furniture. The palette combines cream white, pinks, greens, and subtle black outlines. Details. Dimensions: Length 159 cm – Depth 46 cm – Height 83 cm. Style: Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Solid pine; forged iron fittings; traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joinery; painting on a cream background with floral compositions in pinks and greens. Place of origin: China. Period: End of the Qing dynasty / Early Republic. Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Condition / Observations: Good. Cream paint with softened floral patterns and preserved gentle patina. Wear consistent with age and use.