Chinese Qing Dynasty 19th C. Red Lacquer Cabinet Butterfly Decor

A small antique Chinese red lacquered cabinet, c.1860-1890. Qing Dynasty (last imperial dynasty of China, ruling from 1644 to 1912.), late 19th century, rustic two door cabinet in a black finish with a red lacquered facade of two doors adorned with a hand-painted gilt décor with distressing made of butterflies of various shapes and forms, and surrounds decorated in gilt and black with scrolling foliage on the outer frame.  Finished in a rich red lacquer, these stunning cabinets are decorated with gold and painted by hand, so each one is individual. They’ve been produced for centuries usually in Shanxi province in central China. For the Chinese the butterfly is a symbol of beauty and especially of marital happiness – often seen painted on armoires and trunks from Shanxi that were to be given as part of a bride’s dowry. Condition: Very good; consistent with age and use.