Chinese Cypress Half Table - 19th Century

This antique Chinese half table dates to the 19th century and has a wonderful rich patina. This table is made from cypress (baimu 柏木) wood. These tables are also known as recessed leg tables. This style is found a various places throughout China, although this one could be from Shanxi.

Half tables are perfect for use as lamp tables in a modern home. The style has existed in China since before the Ming dynasty but rose to prominence in the Qing dynasty. They're often depicted in Chinese paintings such as the ones in the photos. This style of table was incredibly versatile and used for serving food & wine, but also as standalone tables in the home.

A half table is defined by its depth being less than half its width, whereas a wine table is usually at least as deep as it is wide. Hence the names are often interchangeable. 

References:

Similar examples can be found in many books on Antique Chinese furniture including 'Chinese Furniture: A Guide to Collecting Antiques' by Mazurkewich - Fig. 215

Similar examples can be found in 'Traditional Chinese Furniture From The Greater Shanxi Region' by CL Ma - fig 85.

From China

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