19th Century Chinese Black Lacquer Altar Console Table

19th Century Chinese Black Lacquer Altar Console Table

Please note: UK sale only. Delivery will be by specialist antique furniture courier and require customer to sign for delivery.

A striking 19th century Chinese altar table of exceptional scale, measuring approximately 270cm in length.

This impressive piece is of traditional recessed trestle-leg form, often associated with the Chinese pingtou’an table, with a long flat top supported on substantial framed legs terminating in broad shoe feet. The front is enriched with beautifully pierced and carved scrolling decoration, incorporating stylised ruyi, cloud and dragon-like motifs.

Probably originating from northern China and constructed from a substantial native timber, likely elm, the table has a rich black lacquered finish which gives it a wonderfully dramatic architectural presence. The existing finish appears to have been refreshed or reapplied during the table’s lifetime rather than representing untouched original lacquer.

Its unusually long and narrow proportions make it particularly effective as a statement console, entrance hall table or display piece. At almost nine feet long, it would work beautifully in a large hallway, dining room, gallery space, boutique hotel or other interior where scale and character are important.

The table shows considerable age-related wear throughout, including scratches, surface marks, areas of rubbing, old knocks and losses, particularly to the top and lower sections. There is also evidence of old movement and wear to the timber and historic surface beneath the later black finish. These characteristics are entirely in keeping with its age and form an important part of its appearance and history.

We believe the table dates from the 19th century, most likely the mid-to-late Qing period, circa 1850–1890. A northern Chinese, possibly Shanxi, origin is plausible from its construction and form, although no provenance is present to confirm the precise region.

Dimensions:

Length: approx. 270cm

Depth: approx. 44cm

Height: approx. 96cm

A substantial and highly decorative piece of antique Chinese furniture with wonderful scale, strong proportions and plenty of character.