Lacquer Cabinet, Canton, Qing Dynasty, 19th Century

Canton lacquer (or export lacquer) table cabinet, made during the Qing Dynasty (19th century) for the European market.
The base is made of wood covered with several layers of glossy black lacquer. The decoration, called miaojin, consists of the application of gold powder or gold paint to create luminous contrasts.
The central oval panels depict scenes of daily life in gardens or palaces (Chinese courtyards), surrounded by floral borders, tendrils, and butterflies, symbols of longevity and happiness.
The interior contains five drawers.
These cabinets were not simple pieces of furniture, but true luxury objects.
They were used by high-society ladies to store jewelry, silks, or precious sewing tools.
They were part of the "chinoiserie" collections typical of stately homes in the Regency and Victorian periods.
The key is missing.
Condition as shown in the photos.
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