Height: 37 in (94 cm)
Width: 28³/₈ in (72 cm)
Depth: 18¹/₂ in (47 cm)
A fine and rare mid 18th century Chinese Export lacquer bureau on stand. Probably made in Canton specifically for the export trade to meet the demands of the European market. Beautifully decorated throughout with gilded decorations on a black lacquer background. The writing section is fitted with double serpentine fronted drawers and pigeon holes - all profusely decorated with sprigs of flowers, foliage and butterflies. The apron frieze contains three working drawers, the central drawer arcaded. With a small pull out pen drawers hidden in one side, and with carrying handles. The fall and top are decorated with raised lacquer work depicting romantic landscapes typical of the period. Raised on cabriole legs all beautifully decorated and detailed. The engraved metal mounts most likely paktong.
This actual desk is illustrated in Judith Miller ‘Furniture – World Styles From Classical to Contemporary’ Dorling Kindersley (2005) p. 208.
Stalker, John and Parker, George, ‘A Treatise of Japanning and Varnishing’, Oxford, 1688.