Chinese Lacquer Work Table, 19th Century, "patent" Stamp

The 19th century Chinese lacquer work table is a refined object, an example of the encounter between Asian craftsmanship and the functional needs of European daily life.
At this time, the taste for oriental objects was growing in Europe, and Chinese lacquer furniture was gaining popularity in refined interiors.
This table, whose primary function is to assist in sewing work, is both practical and beautifully decorated, paying homage to the art of lacquer while fulfilling a utilitarian role.
The overall structure of the table, beyond its sumptuous decoration, is ingeniously designed for the storage and organization of sewing accessories.
The exterior of the table has a black lacquer finish, a deep and elegant shade that highlights the gold patterns applied to the surface.
This contrast between the black of the lacquer and the gold ornaments gives a depth and visual luxury to the piece, which attracts the eye even at rest. The gilded scenes represent pagodas, typical elements of Asian imagery, which evoke idealized and distant landscapes.
These pagodas, surrounded by stylized plant motifs and natural elements, create a perspective effect, almost like a small window opening onto an imaginary and peaceful world.
Each side of the table is thus decorated, making the object aesthetically pleasing from all angles, even when the table is placed in the center of a room.
The interior of the table reveals a meticulous organization, designed to optimize space and meet the requirements of sewing and embroidery.
A drop-leaf allows the table to be opened, revealing several dedicated compartments, each intended for a specific type of tool or accessory. Some compartments are lined with small, finely carved bone elements, a detail that testifies to the particular attention paid to materials and the meticulous work of the craftsman.
These bone details add an additional note of refinement, highlighting the quality of the table and the complexity of its workmanship. The compartments, some equipped with lids, allow you to store needles, threads, scissors, and other accessories, thus guaranteeing ideal organization for sewing work.
The top is designed as a slide, with a mechanism that allows it to be lifted and reveal multiple storage spaces.
This sliding top was probably intended to accommodate a fabric basket, now missing, intended to hold fabric coupons and other bulky items.
The legs of the table, sculpted into claws, reinforce the aesthetic appearance and robustness of the object.
The claw-shaped sculpture is a nod to the decorative trends of the 19th century, where animal and exotic motifs were very popular.
These legs, connected by a spacer, not only ensure the stability of the table, but also bring a touch of elegance and sophistication to the whole.
The presence of this spacer gives an architectural aspect to the base of the table, balancing the busy decoration of the upper part.
This type of structure, which combines ornamentation and solidity, demonstrates undeniable technical know-how.
Another remarkable detail is the table's lock, signed "Patent", a mention that suggests an innovative or particular device.
This detail shows that this table is not only a decorative object, but that it was also designed with ingenuity and functionality in mind.
The mention "Patent" attests to the search for quality and originality of the craftsman or workshop that produced this piece.
It also implies that this model could be perceived as a unique piece or, at least, innovative at the time.
Although the object shows some wear and minor accidents, inevitable with time, these marks of age add to its authenticity and tell part of its history.
These traces testify to its use and its place in the daily lives of its former owners.
They also remind us that, despite the care with which it was made and decorated, this object was made to be used, not just admired.
This work table therefore represents a unique blend of beauty and function, where every detail, from the choice of materials to the decorative patterns and the ergonomics of the compartments, has been designed to create a piece of furniture that is both artistic and utilitarian.

This sculpture is available for sale in my shop at 57 rue Victor Hugo, 76000 Rouen

Possibility of delivery (ask for a transport quote)

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