Three drawer carved and lacquered altar table (front)
Three drawer lacquered altar table with carving - Image 2
Three drawer carved and lacquered altar table (front)

Three drawer lacquered altar table with carving

$4,250.00

18th century

  • elm wood
  • 113cm W x 66cm D x 87cm H

Generously proportioned table with original metal fittings and remnants of lacquer. Central medallion of chrysanthemum symbolises a wish for long life.

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Origins

In the early periods of Chinese history people sat on mats or low platforms. Most furniture was small and low in keeping with the customs of the day. The altar table was in temples more than the home. Over the centuries the chair became more popular and during the Song dynasty (960C.E. – 1279C.E.) the shift from mat to chair was virtually complete.

A consequence of this change in lifestyle was the development and evolution of new types of furniture that had decorative as well as functional roles. Altar tables were one type of furniture that found a place in this new style of living and a range of different types came into fashion. This three drawer lacquered altar table with carving would have held the family shrine, local deities along with items of beauty including porcelain vases with flowers.

Remnants of the original lacquer remain visible on this altar table. Lacquer preserves the timber and creates a rich and lustrous finish. This lacquer is derived from the sap of a certain species of tree native to Asia. Its enduring qualities of protection and aesthetic appeal were first discovered and used approximately 6000 years ago. Processing the sap to lacquer is time-consuming and expensive. The pigments in the lacquer are from plants, minerals and burnt resin.

Synbolism

The large drawer has a medallion of the chrysanthemum. Chrysanthemums symbolise longevity because people believe drinking chrysanthemum tea extends one’s life. The chrysanthemum is also the flower of autumn, specifically the ninth month of September. The word for nine, pronounced “jiu”, shares its pronunciation with the word for “forever” and this enhances the flower’s longevity symbolism. The smaller drawers have peach flowers, another long life symbol.

Modern homes

In modern homes this three drawer lacquered altar table with carving would be perfect in a large entry with a painting or mirror above it. Consider it as well as a feature piece in a lounge or dining room utilising the large drawers for storage.