Chinese Butterfly Drawers, Black Lacquer h120 Though less brighter than they

Though less brighter than they once were

the cabinet has a single removable shelf on the inside

the central carving depicts orchids a symbol of purity and is made from camphor

as well as of servants and civil officials

Drawers were quite rare in early Chinese cabinets so this piece is a more contemporary version of a classic Ming design

Chinese Butterfly Drawers, Black Lacquer h120 Though less brighter than theyThe overall design of this black lacquer chest, with its slightly tapered outline, rounded frames and overhanging top, is inspired by the wonderfully elegant 'round cornered' cabinets that were produced for centuries in China. The butterfly is a symbol of joy for the Chinese, and especially of happiness in a marriage. Traditionally it was used on decorative painted cabinets and other furniture such as the wedding chests that would form part of a