Original Painted Tibetan Cabinet - 19th Century

This 19th-century Tibetan painted cabinet is a beautifully preserved example of traditional Himalayan furniture, retaining its richly coloured original decoration and wonderful centuries-old patina. The striking front features six symmetrical painted panels, each centred with the Chinese longevity character 壽 (shòu), surrounded by delicate scrolling foliage and flowers in shades of coral red, green and blue against a warm golden-yellow background. The longevity symbol represents long life, good health and prosperity, and is frequently found in Tibetan decorative arts, reflecting the cultural and artistic influences of neighbouring China. The repeated circular motifs are beautifully balanced by intricate floral borders painted across the deep red framework. The naturally distressed surface, areas of worn pigment and original iron ring handles give this cabinet remarkable character. Tibetan cabinets of this type became increasingly prominent during the 19th century, when they began to replace traditional storage chests in both domestic and religious settings. Often used as family altar cabinets or within monasteries, they provided storage for sacred Buddhist texts, ceremonial silks, jewellery and yak butter used in religious lamps. Painted furniture was also presented to temples as an offering of devotion and merit. Constructed in the traditional Tibetan manner, the cabinet features four outward-opening doors arranged in two tiers, providing two separate storage compartments. The substantial wooden top and unpainted sides offer a beautiful contrast to the elaborate decoration on the front. Original antique Tibetan cabinets with such extensive surviving painted decoration are increasingly difficult to find, particularly given the large number of reproduction examples produced in China during the late 20th century. This is a particularly attractive example, combining historical significance, symbolic imagery and practical storage. Origin: Tibet Date: 19th century Materials: Painted wood with original iron ring handles Features: Six richly decorated panels featuring the Chinese longevity character 壽 (shòu), symmetrical floral scrollwork, original mineral pigment decoration, red painted framework with gilded detailing, four outward-opening doors and two separate storage compartments Condition: Antique condition with original distressed paintwork, areas of worn gilding, age-related wear and a rich natural patina Dimensions: W111 x D43 x H100 cm Weight: 40kg References Auspicious by Design: A Collection of Antique Tibetan Painted Furniture by C. Corona, Plate 61 – for similar examples. The Encyclopedia of Tibetan Symbols and Motifs by Robert Beer – for further information on Tibetan symbolism.