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Antique Chinese Polychrome "Yixiang" Chest

Currency:USD Category:Collectibles Start Price:200.00 USD Estimated At:650.00 - 1,200.00 USD
Antique Chinese Polychrome  Yixiang  Chest
Gorgeous as well as as versatile this is an antique late 19th Century "Yixiang" style chest on drawers with two "half-Board" unhinged lids. The exterior is richly colored lacquer and paint / polychrome work, of blacks and reds. The panel on the front depicts Chinese noble women with court attendants. The original colors have matured and look absolutely gorgeous and work together beautifully. On top are two generously sized "half board" lids with blacksmithed Iron latches. The bottom skirt of the piece has a scalloping to the front. The tops are not hinged as was done with newer pieces indicating an age of well over ninety years old. Another unique thing about this chest is the wax import customs seal on the back, authenticating its original import from China. The wood on the back and sides shows hand hewn panels. The three draws on the bottom are painted with flowers and have forged iron pull rings. The chest is handcrafted and structured with wooden pegs and tenon structure, which is very traditional craftsmanship for furniture making in ancient China. The chest and drawers are structurally sound with cosmetic wear to be expected given its age and use.