Highly Important and Rare Anglo-Chinese Huanghuali Bureau Cabinet

Canton circa 1740 Height 88” (223cm) Width 41’ (104cm) Depth 22 1/2” (57cm) Made for the English market this cabinet has a skilfully drawn arched cornice with a handsome curved moulding which follows its outline. Fluted columns with charmingly stylised Corinthian capitals flank each door which are finely panelled and constructed very much in the manner of the float panels of domestic Chinese furniture. These doors open to reveal a large number of drawers with shaped and ‘ghost’ figured fronts, adjustable shelves and filing compartments. Below is a magnificently drawn blocked front bureau. The complex interior has a pull-out central section with more shaped drawers flanked by carved columns concealing secret compartments above a well with a sliding panel. The plinth base with bracket feet would have been made when the cabinet arrived in England. All the metalwork appears to be original. Huanghuali This scarce hardwood is highly prized in China for its variety of rich colour, exceptional figure and aromatic aroma. It is also impervious to worms and beetles, Eastern or Western. The present bureau cabinet is an outstanding example of the variety of colour and figure that makes this timber so appealing. Over the years we have been fortunate to acquire a small number of these rare Anglo-Chinese cabinets. In my opinion this Bureau Cabinet is the finest that we have been privileged to handle. For related Cabinets see The Decorative Arts of The China Trade by Car L Crossman for the Furniture History Society Page 223, Plate 77 Doyle, New York Asian Works of Art Session 2 March 20th 2024 lot 562