Painted Gansu Grain Store Sideboard - 19th Century Chest of Drawers narrow proportions reflect the practical

narrow proportions reflect the practical design of rural Chinese interiors

The lintel has a carved lotus flower flanked by two peacocks and floral vines run around the mirror frame

5 x 53 cm(w x d x h)

The central medallion depicts three flaming jewels surrounded by a typical quatrefoil frame infilled with traditional geometric brocade designs

Burr wood is a highly prized timber

Painted Gansu Grain Store Sideboard - 19th Century Chest of Drawers narrow proportions reflect the practicalThis 19th century painted grain store sideboard originates from Gansu Province in north western China, where it would have served the nomadic communities of Gansu and neighbouring northern Shanxi. Originally designed for storing grain, clothing and other household provisions, cabinets of this type were also used as domestic altar cabinets, displaying ancestral tablets and treasured objects during family ceremonies. This cabinet has been