Antique Chinese Export Black Gilt Lacquer Chest 2 Drawers Grape Vine 19th C

Overview

A two-drawer tabletop chest in black lacquer with gilt decoration, made in the Chinese export tradition for Western buyers. The top is covered with gilt grape clusters, vine leaves and scrolling tendrils inside a shaped border, arranged around a central oval painted with flowers and leaves. At the center of the oval is a small black reserve with a gilt script monogram. Both serpentine-front drawers carry matching grape-vine decoration with gilt corner panels, and each has two brass ring pulls and a keyhole. The shaped base stands on bracket feet and has small gilt floral sprays. It would suit a dresser, desk, side table or shelf as a display piece, or as storage for jewelry and small keepsakes.

Background

Chinese export lacquer workshops made boxes and small furniture for European and American buyers through the 19th century, and they often copied Western furniture shapes. This chest follows the form of a European serpentine chest of drawers on a small scale, and the monogram on the top was a personal touch that Western buyers often requested. It is unmarked. Two small square openings at the back edge of the top may once have held fittings that are now missing.

Condition

Heavily worn antique condition. The lacquer has extensive cracking across the top, sides, back and underside, with lifting, flaking and losses that show the wood underneath, especially on the back, the edges and the corners. The top has a small patch of gray, fuzzy surface residue near the front edge and a dark spot toward the right side, and the gilt is worn in places, though the monogram and most of the pattern remain clear. Both drawer fronts have chips and losses, and the open lower drawer shows wear inside. No keys are included and the locks have not been tested. The lacquer is fragile and more flakes may come loose with handling. Sold as is; best suited for display or professional conservation. Please see all photos.

Dimensions & Weight

The chest measures about 7 x 18.5 x 10.7 inches (H x W x D) and weighs about 8 lb 6 oz.

Shipping

Free standard shipping within the US, packed securely.