Description
About
This piece is a magnificent example of a restored antique Chinese sideboard, originating from the Manchurian region. It embodies the robust, pragmatic, and highly decorative style of Northern Chinese furniture, crafted primarily from elm wood—a timber prized for its beautiful, prominent grain and durability. The restoration has preserved its soulful character, allowing the natural wear of the wood and the faded elegance of its paintings to tell a story of a bygone era.
This elegant Chinese sideboard boasts a rich red lacquer finish, intricately hand-decorated with gold floral and bird motifs. The front panels display finely detailed blossoms and foliage framed by an ornate border, showcasing the craftsmanship typical of traditional Chinese decorative art. The cabinet rests on short, inward-curved Tiger legs and has double doors with a central circular lock plate, opening to reveal interior storage space.
The combination of deep red lacquer and gilded embellishments evokes both opulence and harmony, hallmarks of Qing Dynasty–inspired furniture design. Its compact form and balanced proportions make it suitable as an accent piece in a living room, entryway, or dining area, blending easily with both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Practical Function — Layered Access and Security
Traditional Chinese furniture was often made for multi-purpose household use, not for a single fixed function (like our modern cabinets).
So a sideboard or storage chest with top-opening panels served two levels of access:
✦ Top-opening doors (lid panels):
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Allowed people to place or retrieve items without fully opening the front — convenient for frequently used or fragile things like textiles, scrolls, writing tools, or ritual items.
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Often included hidden or lockable compartments beneath the lid — perfect for storing silver, seals, documents, or jewellery.
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Summary of Symbolism on the Front:
| Motif | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Mandarin ducks (pair) | Faithful love; lifelong partnership; harmony |
| Lotus / water | Purity; continuous peace |
| Peony | Beauty; prosperity; marital success |
| Red & gold | Joy; fortune; auspicious blessings |
Country of Origin
c.1900 Manchuria, China
Dimensions
Width 155cm x Depth 40cm x Height 81cm
Materials
Solid wood
Care instructions
Clean with a soft cloth
Keep away from heat sources or direct sunlight
Delivery details
You are always welcome to come to pick the goods up at our store or our warehouse in Bristol
Goods will usually be dispatched within 5 working days after the payment has been received
Delivery Cost within mainland UK – £60.00
Due to the size and weight of this item, it is dispatched using our bespoke furniture courier service, delivered on a mutually convenient day. Please contact us at info@nookdeco.co.uk for the delivery arrangement
