19th Century Chinese Lacquer Cabinet with Painted Panels

Chinese Lacquer Cabinet 

A distinctive 19th century Chinese cabinet finished in deep red and black lacquer, featuring painted figural panels to the doors and four drawers arranged below. This tall, architectural piece brings colour, age, and character into any curated interior, making it ideal for a living room, study, or statement hallway setting.

The cabinet retains much of its original lacquer, softened and worn through natural use and time. The doors are decorated with painted scenes rather than chinoiserie imagery, showing stylised figures and ornamental details framed within moulded panels. Above the main painted scenes sit two smaller decorative panels, each enclosed with remnants of gilt and darker lacquer layers, contributing to the overall richness and depth of the surface.

Internally, the cupboard contains fixed shelves, providing practical storage while maintaining its authentic 19th-century construction. The lower section houses four drawers, all in original timber, with later handles that were likely added when the piece was refreshed in the late 20th century. The central pin securing the doors is also a later replacement, again consistent with over-lacquering and restoration work undertaken during the 1980s or 1990s. Despite these updates, the cabinet remains wonderfully honest, showing its age beautifully through marks, wear, and natural cracking to the lacquer.

Solidly made and full of presence, this is a strong decorative piece with a genuine sense of history, perfect for adding patina and warmth to both traditional and contemporary spaces.

Key Details

• Origin: China, 19th century
• Materials: Hardwood with red and black lacquer
• Finish: Original lacquer with later over-lacquering (c. 1980s–90s)
• Design Features: Two doors with painted figural panels; four drawers; internal fixed shelves; moulded framing; tall, narrow profile
• Condition: Worn lacquer with age-related marks and old repairs; later handles and central pin; stable and authentic throughout

Dimensions

• Height: 176 cm
• Width: 66 cm
• Depth: 45 cm