Black Lacquer Painting Table

A painting table was considered furniture of the elite class, and the style often conveyed restraint in decoration. This painting table still has its original black lacquer finish, which has aged gracefully. It is constructed with a standard mitered frame with a tongue and grooved floating panel. There is a beautifully proportioned waist and the straight legs, which end in horse hoof feet, are tenoned to the top frame. This particular table is a classic example of the simplicity of form appreciated in furniture from the Ming era.