Pair of Black Lacquer Tapered Cabinets

With simplicity of form and an understated presence, these elegant lacquer cabinets exemplify the timeless appeal of classical Chinese furniture. Used in traditional homes in lieu of built-in closets, large, upright cabinets such as this were set against the wall and filled with clothing, bedding, books and other household goods. The pair dates to the mid-19th century and is crafted of elm with mortise-and-tenon joinery in the style of sloping-stile cabinets, with subtle A-frame silhouettes and overhung tops.

Ideal today as an armoire or cupboard, each cabinet opens by two elongated front doors to reveal a spacious interior with two shelves, two drawers and a lower hidden compartment. The double doors are secured to a central stile with dagger-and-post brass hardware affixed with three vase-shape pulls. With minimalist restraint, the cabinets are left undecorated save for a glossy black lacquer finish, now richly textured from years of use and worn along the corners for a touch of warm brown color.

Additional Dimensions:
Drawers: 8.25"W x 17.25"D x 4.5"H
Door Opening: 28"W x 51"H