Relief Carving Chest Appraisal

Chinese Camphor Wood Hope Chest with Relief Carvings

This is a mid-20th-century Chinese camphor wood chest featuring intricate hand-carved relief panels. The chest is rectangular in shape and constructed from solid camphor wood, which is traditionally used for its aromatic properties and pest-resistant qualities. The top lid and front facade exhibit deep bas-relief carvings depicting traditional Chinese figural narratives, including scholars, architectural elements, and landscapes framed by scrolling floral and leaf borders. The exterior shows a rich, multi-toned finish with dark mahogany-hued borders contrasting against lighter, golden-brown recessed carved areas. It features a circular brass latch plate with a traditional pin-and-hasp mechanism centered on the front. The edges are finished with a textured scale-like or geometric pattern. Regarding condition, there is visible dust accumulation in the crevices, light surface scratching, and some chipping likely present along the sharp carved edges from age and movement. The craftsmanship reflects typical Export Style aesthetics popular between 1940 and 1970, marked by high-relief detailing and robust construction. The chest rests on bracket feet, though the angle obscures specific structural joins.