Writing desk; China, late 19th century.

Writing desk; China, late 19th century.
Elm wood.
Measurements: 81 x 114 x 58 cm.
This piece of furniture of refined workmanship and balanced proportions, belongs to the last period of the Qing dynasty, when the traditional forms of Chinese furniture reached a point of stylistic maturity and functionality.
The piece is made of wood lacquered in a dark tone, which reveals the natural grain of the material under a glossy patina. The design, with straight and refined lines, responds to the Chinese aesthetic ideal of harmony and balance between structure and emptiness.
The front has four symmetrically arranged drawers, with metal ring handles that add a discreet decorative accent. The trimmed border under the top introduces a slight visual movement that softens the geometry of the whole, demonstrating the craftsman's attention to detail and proportion.