Cupboard- sideboard; China, c.1900.

Cupboard- sideboard; China, c.1900.
Camphor wood.
Measurements: 195 x 158,5 x 57 cm.
Cabinet of Chinese origin, made of wood and dated in the period of transition between the end of the Qing dynasty and the beginning of the twentieth century, is a representative example of domestic furniture of vertical structure and symmetrical composition characteristic of traditional Chinese cabinetmaking. The piece is constructed with joinery assemblies without visible nails, which shows the technical expertise of the workshops that cultivated this type of furniture.
The front is organized in three registers: at the top, an open opening topped by an openwork frieze with undulating stem vegetal decoration, which extends along the top and side edges of the compartment. A horizontal band presents a series of rectangular fretwork with scroll and leaf motifs, introducing an element of visual lightness within the overall solidity of the design.
The main body consists of two doors of assembled panels, delimited by a robust frame of straight lines and reinforced by circular metal hardware, arranged at the hinge and locking points. In the center, a metal locking system composed of circular plates and a cross bar with pin.
The wood, with pronounced grain and warm coloring, is presented with a polished finish that highlights the natural qualities of the material. The structure rests on a slightly recessed solid base, which ensures stability and visual continuity. As a whole, the work is characterized by the combination of constructive austerity and decorative refinement, essential features of Chinese furniture in the classical tradition.