Large size antique book storage chest/trunk with woven bamboo and old brass handles; with intricately woven bamboo patterns on the lid and on the chest, all covered in the original old black lacquer. Such book chest was said to be used for storing stacks of rice paper bound manuscript books in the Ningbo/ Zhianf-zhe area in China. Late 19th - early 20th century.

Although the use of black lacquer is not as common for Southern Chinese furniture pieces, compared to the northern Chinese pieces, it is understandable that this bamboo woven chest is coated with a water-proof black lacquer to ensure the moisture does not get into the inside easily where manuscripts were stored. At old time, furnishing is part of important personal belongings. Therefore, often pieces were made with great consideration to last for a life time. This is also evident from the use of the solid wood frame for this piece to ensure that it will last as well as holding the weight since the bamboo material can easily be damaged.

Dimensions: 13 3/4"h x 20 3/8"w x 13 7/8"d

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