Chinese Pingtouan Console Table, Qing Dynasty, 19th Century, China

Traditional Chinese console table, Pingtouan from the 19th century - Qing Dynasty. The console is double-sided, in fact the sculptures are the same on each side. The table top reveals the natural patterns of the wood. Made from high quality varnished solid wood. Magnificent Chinese craftsmanship. The outline of the table is bordered with a traditional Chinese design, which marks the authenticity of the piece. Very beautiful carved wood work. The finish is very neat. The natural beauty of the wood is highlighted and gives the table a refined and classic look. The feet are sculpted like perfectly rounded columns. The top thus rests on 4 rounded legs joined by a double crosspiece on either side, each topped with a double openwork and scrolled ruyi motif at the upper junction. Ruyi literally means “as desired” or “as you wish”. Widely used in ornamentation, the ruyi frieze conveys the symbol of blessing, long life and good fortune. The Pingtouan form, with its simple lines, rounded legs and pairs of stretchers, is also among the most successful and recognizable forms of classical Chinese furniture construction. The basic proportions have been adapted to make large painting tables, smaller tables, benches and stools. This form of chart is called in the Lu Ban Jing "character chart one" because of its similarity in profile to the single horizontal stroke of the Chinese character for the number one. This table is an example of a narrow version of the form. It would most likely have been placed against a wall to serve as an altar table or display table for ornamental objects. Very elegant, this table fits into all styles of decoration. Very beautiful piece which is a witness to Chinese history. Used as a console or high table, it is a guarantee of elegance and a mark of history. 19th century - China