Chinese chest with original painting – China, circa 1900

This antique painted pine chest features a front composed of framed panels with a gilded huiwen frieze, a central panel with a flower vase, and floral and butterfly motifs on the side panels. It originates from northern China, dating from the late 19th or early 20th century, where the pine was crafted using dovetail joints and decorated with hand-applied paint on a coloured background. In traditional Chinese furniture, medium-sized painted chests were part of the domestic trousseau and often the bridal dowry. They were reserved for textiles, festive clothing, and personal items, and were transported between the family home and the husband's home as part of the wedding gift. Vermilion red was the classic colour for trousseau pieces — a colour of good omens, associated with marriage, the domestic home, and prosperity. The body is constructed from solid pine, assembled with visible dovetail joints. The top lid opens on two rear hinges made of wrought iron. A central bolt lock with a brass plate ensures closure. The sides feature original recessed handles for transport. The structure retains its original integrity. Details. Dimensions: Length 77 cm – Depth 52 cm – Height 51 cm. Style: Late Qing Dynasty / Early Republic. Materials and techniques: Solid pine; wrought iron fittings and brass plate; central bolt lock; dovetail assembly; original paint on a vermilion background with floral polychromy and gilding. Place of origin: Northern China. Period: Late 19th century – early 20th century. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Very good. Original patina and paint are very well aged, with no invasive restoration. Structure is intact. Wear consistent with age and use.