Red Lacquer Cabinet Appraisal

Chinese Red Lacquer Marriage Cabinet

This item is a small-scale Chinese lacquer cabinet, likely used as a storage chest or bedside table. It features a bold, aged red cinnabar lacquer finish on a wooden frame. The cabinet is constructed with two square-cut front doors secured by four prominent black-finished iron strap hinges with stud detailing. Central to the design is a traditional round brass or bronze faceplate (paitong) with a slide-rod locking mechanism and a hanging metal tag. The piece stands on integrated block feet with a slight scalloped apron at the base. Its style is indicative of the late Qing Dynasty or an early 20th-century reproduction in that classic style. The condition shows significant character-enhancing wear, including fine craquelure across the lacquer surface, various abrasions on the top and edges, and a natural darkening of the pigments indicative of age. The craftsmanship appears robust, utilizing traditional joinery techniques common in Shanxi or similar regional Chinese furniture traditions. The hardware shows a dark patina consistent with oxidization over several decades. This style is highly sought after for its vibrant color and symbolic representation of joy and luck in Chinese culture.