Table
ca. 1600 (made)
| Artist/Maker | |
| Place of origin |
This rectangular table of plain polished 'huali' wood has side panels of openwork carving and everted flanges at each end. This type of table is known as 'an', meaning a table with in-set legs. By contrast a 'zhuo' is a 'table with legs at the corners'.
Both categories of Chinese table had numerous uses and so cannot be classified by function. Long rectangular tables were used as writing desks or set against a wall in order to display flowers or ornaments.
Both categories of Chinese table had numerous uses and so cannot be classified by function. Long rectangular tables were used as writing desks or set against a wall in order to display flowers or ornaments.
Object details
| Category | |
| Object type | |
| Materials and techniques | Huali wood, carved |
| Brief description | Rectangular huali wood table, Chinese. |
| Physical description | Long and high rectangular table of plain polished huali wood, with side panels of openwork carving and everted flanges at each end. Between the legs at each end are two heavy rectangular section stretchers. Both legs and both stretchers at each end form the frame for a panel of vigorous openwork carving of a dragon among scrolling clouds. The legs end in outward curving "shoe" feet (missing on one leg). The underside retains traces of an original coating. |
| Dimensions |
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| Style | |
| Summary | This rectangular table of plain polished 'huali' wood has side panels of openwork carving and everted flanges at each end. This type of table is known as 'an', meaning a table with in-set legs. By contrast a 'zhuo' is a 'table with legs at the corners'. Both categories of Chinese table had numerous uses and so cannot be classified by function. Long rectangular tables were used as writing desks or set against a wall in order to display flowers or ornaments. |
| Collection | |
| Accession number | FE.18-1980 |
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| Record created | July 6, 2000 |
| Record URL |
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