"Palace Park" Cabinet

With exceptionally rich lacquerwork, this cabinet bears traces of the original ornate gilt scenery, depicting traditional Chinese palatial courtyard structures in a mountainous park setting. It is framed by intricately scrolled gilt work on the supporting spars. At one time, this hand-lacquered scene would have been bold in its depiction of the palatial mountain gardens. Mellowing over centuries of use, the gilt surface now hums quietly yet brilliantly, providing lovely texture from afar and wonderful richness from close up. Clean lines and expert joinery exhibit the traditional aesthetic developed by Ming period carpenters.