Wood - Vietnam - 20th century





Catawiki Buyer Protection
Your payment’s safe with us until you receive your object.View details
Trustpilot 4.4 | 123609 reviews
Rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Description from the seller
Exceptional carved wooden chest from Indochina, early 20th century, with carved skirt and sides. A floral relief on the front lends an aesthetic and symbolic focus. The chest rests on four straight legs, whose slightly tapered lines culminate in distinctive claw-shaped ends, a reflection of Western influence. Geometric ornamentation and traditional symbols. These are two separate pieces.
The upper section depicts a vibrant landscape: a man riding a cattle animal prepares to cross a stone bridge. On one side, a traditional house is shaded by a tree, and on the other, mountains are seen in the light of dawn. All of this is replete with details rich in symbolism and auspicious qualities. The tondo, or cartouche, is framed by dragons, as are the sides of the chest, represented as dragon heads. The front of the chest features a beautiful garland of carved camellias. Of particular note is the intricate apron, meticulously carved with Chinese calligraphy motifs and various geometric shapes.
This type of chest was used to store valuable items such as jewelry or important documents. Both the technique and style of the carving indicate a piece of high-quality craftsmanship. Combining utility and aesthetics, this late Qing Dynasty side chest strikes a perfect balance between classical artistry and practical design. Its versatility is evident, as it can function perfectly as a portable storage unit or as a side table, adapting to your needs and personal style.
Model: Chest or trunk with support
Material: Elm wood
Period: Circa 1900
Country of origin: Indochina
Good state of preservation consistent with its age and use
Dimensions: 68 x 55 x 36 cm
Shipping costs include professional, custom-made packaging; personalized shipping with tracking number and warranty. The buyer will be responsible for paying import duties and associated taxes in the destination country, if any. Please note the seller's exemption from liability regarding possible customs charges, as these are levied in the destination country and the amount payable is determined by that country's customs. If an export permit is required, the costs are borne by the buyer. The cost varies progressively based on the value of the artwork being exported.
Seller's Story
Exceptional carved wooden chest from Indochina, early 20th century, with carved skirt and sides. A floral relief on the front lends an aesthetic and symbolic focus. The chest rests on four straight legs, whose slightly tapered lines culminate in distinctive claw-shaped ends, a reflection of Western influence. Geometric ornamentation and traditional symbols. These are two separate pieces.
The upper section depicts a vibrant landscape: a man riding a cattle animal prepares to cross a stone bridge. On one side, a traditional house is shaded by a tree, and on the other, mountains are seen in the light of dawn. All of this is replete with details rich in symbolism and auspicious qualities. The tondo, or cartouche, is framed by dragons, as are the sides of the chest, represented as dragon heads. The front of the chest features a beautiful garland of carved camellias. Of particular note is the intricate apron, meticulously carved with Chinese calligraphy motifs and various geometric shapes.
This type of chest was used to store valuable items such as jewelry or important documents. Both the technique and style of the carving indicate a piece of high-quality craftsmanship. Combining utility and aesthetics, this late Qing Dynasty side chest strikes a perfect balance between classical artistry and practical design. Its versatility is evident, as it can function perfectly as a portable storage unit or as a side table, adapting to your needs and personal style.
Model: Chest or trunk with support
Material: Elm wood
Period: Circa 1900
Country of origin: Indochina
Good state of preservation consistent with its age and use
Dimensions: 68 x 55 x 36 cm
Shipping costs include professional, custom-made packaging; personalized shipping with tracking number and warranty. The buyer will be responsible for paying import duties and associated taxes in the destination country, if any. Please note the seller's exemption from liability regarding possible customs charges, as these are levied in the destination country and the amount payable is determined by that country's customs. If an export permit is required, the costs are borne by the buyer. The cost varies progressively based on the value of the artwork being exported.

