Antique buffet painted in elm wood – China, circa 1900

This antique painted buffet made of elm wood is a Chinese piece with two doors adorned with a painted landscape and pull rings. It originates from northern China, from the Qing dynasty, where the elm was treated with a clear lacquer preparing the painted decor. Buffets of this size were placed against the wall of the main room and stored dishes, linen, and everyday items. The painted facade had a social function: it was the face presented to the visitor. The body is made of solid elm, assembled with mortise and tenon joints. Two framed panel doors open to an interior with a full-width shelf. Four straight legs with a square section support the case, and the belt is finished with a smooth moulding. On the cream background, the doors feature a shan-shui landscape painted with a free brush: a pagoda with a red roof among the groves, willows in green ink, and blurred mountains in the background. The mouldings are highlighted in turquoise green. The composition is of a landscape rather than a narrative, allowing the light background to breathe. The clear lacquer has worn unevenly, revealing the wood on the edges and areas of friction. The landscape has lost some intensity, which enhances its atmospheric quality. The surface appears authentic, without any repainting that obscures it. Details Dimensions: Length 166 cm – Depth 40 cm – Height 83 cm Style: Painted Chinese Materials and techniques: Elm wood; brass fittings; mortise and tenon assembly; clear lacquer and hand-painted decor. Place of origin: China Period: Qing dynasty Date of manufacture: Circa 1900 Condition / Observations: Good. Original lacquer and paint with uneven wear, visible wood on the edges. Wear consistent with age and use.