Antique pine coffee table – China circa 1930

Antique pine coffee table, traditional Chinese furniture from Shanxi, dated around 1930. Originating from Shanxi in northern China, from the early 20th century, where the local pine was crafted using mortise and tenon joinery without nails, featuring carved stretchers and low braces. In domestic interiors of northern China, coffee tables served as auxiliary surfaces next to the kang, raised platforms used for sitting and resting. The piece accompanied daily life: a support for tea cups, a stand for books, a low work surface, or an informal dining table. Its typology reflects the material culture of northern China, where domestic furniture was understated and functional. Constructed from solid pine using traditional mortise and tenon joinery, without nails. The single slab top rests on four square-section legs with carved lobed stretchers on the long sides. Lower H-shaped stretchers reinforce the structure. The joinery follows the language of provincial Chinese furniture from the north. Details. Dimensions: Length 88 cm – Depth 53 cm – Height 28 cm. Style: Northern provincial Chinese furniture. Materials and techniques: Solid pine; mortise and tenon joinery without nails, carved lobed stretchers, lower H-shaped stretchers. Place of origin: Shanxi (China) Period: Early Republic of China (circa 1930) Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Condition / Observations: Structure intact. Original patina. Visible marks and signs of use on the top. Wear consistent with age and use.