Writing desk (formerly a table from an ancestors’ altar) with calligraphic inscriptions on its legs

Chinese Collection

Accession Nr.: 2000.99.1
Type: furniture; lacquers
Date of production:
Late 19th century
Qing dynasty
Place of production:
Materials: copper; pine
Techniques: carved; gilt; lacquered
Dimensions: height: 85 cm
depth: 53 cm
length: 90.5 cm
The desk has a rectangular top, three sides of which have a narrow rim. A series of decorative figural carved inserts surrounds the desk beneath the table top, illustrating the inscriptions on the legs of the desk. The front of the desk has three drawers, with raindrop-shaped brass handles.