Butterfly Style Storage Cabinet With Carved Spandrels

A Chinese Ming-style wooden butterfly cabinet from the 19th century, with carved spandrels, drawers, doors and dark oxblood patina. This elegant coffer, called a butterfly cabinet, features a rectangular floating panel top sitting above three drawers, each and fitted with brass hardware. (Over time, missing handles have been replaced but not matched!) Two doors are found below, flanked with solid panels. A single shelf divides the interior space horizontally. Our eyes are immediately drawn to the carved spandrels that decorate the sides and give the piece its distinctive lacey profile. With its refined surface and dark patina, this Ming Dynasty style butterfly cabinet is a great focal point in any home, particularly in an entry. The piece is very old, dating to the prosperous and confident "Middle Qing" period.