Shanxi buffet in original red paint with four drawers – China, circa 1930

This Shanxi buffet made of solid pine retains its original red-orange paint, a rarity in provincial Chinese furniture that has survived a century. It features four upper drawers, a central body with two doors, and a lower belt with carved panels. Shanxi, China, circa 1930. The intense red — traditionally obtained from iron oxide pigments or other mineral earths in oil preparation — was applied to the most representative furniture in the main living room: a symbol of wealth and status in the domestic culture of northern China. Preserving the original paint after nearly a hundred years of use is exceptional and greatly enhances the heritage interest of the piece. The solid pine structure comprises four upper drawers with individually carved panels, two central doors with moulded frames, an interior with a middle shelf, and a lower belt with five carved panels. The hardware is original forged iron. The joints are traditional mortise and tenon. Details. Materials and techniques: Solid pine; original red-orange paint on traditional preparation; forged iron hardware; carved panels; mortise and tenon joints. Place of origin: Shanxi, China. Period: Late Qing tradition. Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Dimensions: Length 106 cm – Depth 40 cm – Height 100 cm. Condition: Good. Wear consistent with age and use. Patina and original red paint.