Painted Opera Chest From Shanxi - 19thC Ancestor Figures Ganesh or Vishnu

Ganesh or Vishnu

The shaped apron beneath each shelf introduces a subtle softness to the otherwise linear frame

Materials: Woven willow with wooden handle and metal strengthening straps

and is painted with decorative flowers and framed with running dog motifs

cross-braced sides

Painted Opera Chest From Shanxi - 19thC Ancestor Figures Ganesh or VishnuThis painted Chinese paulownia trunk is known as an opera chest and originates from Shanxi Province and dates from the late 19th century. Chests of this style are constructed from paulownia wood (tong mu ) Paulownia trees were often planted at the birth of a daughter and were considered symbols of prosperity, fertility & marital bliss. Upon reaching maturity the tree would be crafted into furniture and given as part of a bride's dowry symbolising hope