Painted Tiger Cabinet From Qinghai - 19th Century

This bold and characterful 19th century painted Tiger cabinet is from Qinghai province, in the north-western regions of China where vividly decorated domestic furniture formed an important part of everyday interiors. The front is dominated by a striking tiger with wide eyes, pronounced fangs, and animated striped forms. The palette of deep red, ochre, and black is typical of Qinghai and north-western Chinese painted furniture, giving the cabinet a lively, expressive quality that is both powerful and charming.

Cabinets like this were originally designed with a drop-front upper section rather than doors (a later customisation). Furniture from this area is recognised for its strong colour, graphic imagery, and confident folk-art style, which makes an immediate visual impact within the home.

The tiger was widely regarded in China as a symbol of strength and protection, believed to ward off misfortune. Similar imagery appears on regional painted doors, furniture, and textiles, especially in Tibet where bold animal motifs carried both decorative and symbolic meaning.

A single internal shelf and legs have been added to make the piece as functional as it is decorative.

• Origin: Qinghai style, North Western China
• Date: 19th century
• Materials: Painted pine with later brass fittings
• Features: Tiger painted cabinet, Qinghai folk-art decoration, bold original colour, drop-front upper opening, internal shelf
• Condition: Very good antique condition with authentic wear and patina consistent with age
• Dimensions: Width 113 × Depth 36 × Height 86 cm