Antique pine buffet with carved panels – China, circa 1900

This antique buffet made of solid pine features panels with curved interlaced carvings, decorative corner brackets, and a stylised leaf-shaped wrought iron lock. The patina is dense and dark, honestly marked by prolonged domestic use. China, circa 1900. In northern China, mid-height buffets were placed in the main living room or in secondary rooms to store belongings, clothing, or kitchen utensils. Rural carpentry from Shanxi maintained the forms and carved details inherited from the Qing repertoire throughout the 20th century. The construction is typical: solid pine structure, front with an upper drawer on carved panels, mortise and tenon joints, a top with slightly moulded edges, and a worked lower apron. The hardware — lock plate, rings, and hinges — is original wrought iron. Details. Materials and techniques: Solid pine; wrought iron hardware; carved panels; mortise and tenon joints. Place of origin: China. Period: Late Qing tradition. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Dimensions: Length 114 cm – Depth 40 cm – Height 84 cm. Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Original patina.