Antique elm wood coffee table – China, circa 1900

This antique elm coffee table is a Chinese kang table with a solid top and cut aprons, resting on four round legs connected by stretchers. It originates from China, from the late Qing dynasty, where elm was worked using mortise and tenon joinery. Kang tables were used on the heated platform of the Chinese home as a low surface for tea, meals, and reading. Their low height catered to a domestic life close to the ground. The top is made of solid elm, mounted on round-section legs reinforced by stretchers, with aprons featuring a cut profile beneath the edge. The joints are mortise and tenon, hand-fitted, and the wood retains tool marks. The patina is warm and uneven, in a chestnut tone with visible grain under gentle wear. Small marks and stains from use traverse the surface, confirming its authenticity. Due to its low height and contained proportions, it can be used as a coffee table in front of a sofa or as a tea table with an Asian spirit. It fits into wabi-sabi, japandi, and contemporary rustic interiors, where it brings a serene presence. Details. Dimensions: Length 85 cm – Depth 46 cm – Height 28 cm. Style: Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Solid elm; traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joinery. Place of origin: China. Period: Late Qing Dynasty. Date of manufacture: Circa 1900. Condition / Observations: Good. Honest patina and wear on the elm, with marks and stains from use. Wear consistent with age and use.