17TH-18TH CENTURY

Details

A RARE BAITONG-MOUNTED HUANGHUALI SEAL CHEST, GUANPIXIANG
17TH-18TH CENTURY
The flat top opens to reveal a single tray, and the single-panel doors open to reveal the interior fitted with five drawers. The chest is mounted with an octagonal floral-form lockplate and cloud-form clasp, and with shaped handles on the sides. The whole is set into a base with finely molded edge and raised on small curved legs terminating in hoof feet.
15 in. (38 cm.) high, 13 in. (33 cm.) wide, 13 ¾ in. (35.1 cm.) deep

Provenance

Robert H. Ellsworth, New York, 1980.
The Marie Theresa L. Virata (1923-2015) Collection.

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Lot Essay

The choice of huanghuali with a particularly attractive grain, evident on the beautifully matched panel doors, distinguishes the present chest as an especially desirable example of its type. Also note the fine baitong mounts, which are similar in form to those found on the ‘Piccus’ cabinet (lot 612), and the raised base, which is a particularly rare feature. Compare with a similar huanghuali seal chest from The Collection of Robert Hatfield Ellsworth, sold at Christie’s New York, 18 March 2015, lot 129.

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