Lot 93. A huali storage chest, yixiang, Qing Dynasty, 19th century; 18 3/4 x 39 1/2 x 25 7/8in (47.7 x 100.3 x 65.8cm). Sold for US$2,040 (Estimate: US$6,000 - 8,000). © Bonhams 2001-2023
The Mary and Cheney Cowles Collection
The three-board top set over straight sides and fitted with a circular huangtong lockplate with cloud-shaped hasp, the side panels set with c-shaped huangtong bail handles with circular backplates and striking plate.
Provenance: Jim Freeman, March 1, 1989
Note: This rectangular chest is designed with a classic aesthetic that accentuates the mesmerizing wood grain. The "double happiness" symbol indicates that it was used to store either the bride or the groom's wedding gowns or their matrimonial beddings, which include red linens and pillows. With a glowing surface and graining patterns that are similar to those of huanghuali, huali became a popular and much more affordable alternative for furniture making during the late-Qing period, when the supply of huanghuali was limited. A pair of 18th/19th century huanghuali storage chests with the same design were sold on 15 September 2014, lot 8110.
Bonhams. THE MARY AND CHENEY COWLES COLLECTION OF CLASSICAL CHINESE FURNITURE, 20 March 2023, New York
