Tianjin Sideboard Made From Catalpa & Elm - 19th Century Religious Item We've removed layers of soot

We've removed layers of soot and discoloured orange varnish to reveal the beautifully painted scenes underneath

as they're all handmade there may be slight variations in the carvings of the mirror shown

Bound with iron

The frame features richly detailed hand-turned bobbin motifs

The aged paint layers reveal subtle tonal variation throughout

Tianjin Sideboard Made From Catalpa & Elm - 19th Century Religious Item We've removed layers of sootTianjin sideboards come from the port city of Tianjin & surrounding areas in North China. The simple design originated during the Ming dynasty. This piece dates from the 19th Century and is made from elm and catalpa wood. The fittings are made from brass and are square and rectangular. It has one large interior space and five drawers. It has developed a wonderful patina over time. Traditionally, these cabinets were used for storage and altar cabinets