Bleached Coffee Table From Henan - Ca 1900 Sideboards with traces of old pitch

with traces of old pitch still visible in parts of the carving

It records a Kagami biraki ceremony where mochi rice cakes are broken and eaten

Also known as the 'Monster of Greed' (T'ao t'ieh in Chinese)

the central doors open to reveal a practical shelf

internal chain to support lid

Bleached Coffee Table From Henan - Ca 1900 Sideboards with traces of old pitchThis early 20th century elm coffee table from Henan province is a wonderfully honest example of traditional Chinese country furniture. Originally used for everyday family meals, its simple, robust construction reflects a life of practical use, while its timeworn surface tells a story of generations past. Crafted from solid elm, the table has developed a rich, varied patina, with deep tonal shifts across the top where years of use have softened the