18TH-19TH CENTURY

This elegant writing table is a rare example of Western-influenced design executed in huanghuali using traditional Chinese furniture construction techniques. Close examination of the carving and decorative motifs suggests that the Chinese carpenter drew inspiration from design books, such as Thomas Chippendale’s The Gentleman & Cabinet-Maker’s Director, first published in 1774. Details such as the outline of the drawers in high relief and the twisting scrollwork on the upper gallery suggest an interpretation of a printed design rather than working from a three dimensional-example. As an example, the twisting scrollwork centered on a tear drop on the upper gallery is a clear reference to a commonly seen Chinese furniture design motif of two chilong confronting on a flaming pearl. A small British desk, dated circa 1765, in satinwood, purpleheart and padouk in The Metropolitan Museum of Art, object number 1974.356.211, with attenuated cabriole leg terminating in shaped brass feet, keyfret brass mounts along the waist and drawers, and upper cabinets with architectural gallery, could be a model for the present desk.