Elm Kang Table From Shanxi - 19th Century

This kang table is from Shanxi province and dates from the 19^th century. It has developed a wonderful rich patina over the years. It is constructed from yumu (northern elm). 

Kang tables were used on either side of the kang, a raised hollow brick (or stone) platform in Chinese homes used as a bed. Traditionally the kang was heated in winter. This style of leisurely platform life and mat culture became customary and use of the kang table spread to use on couch beds during the Qing dynasty. The kang table was so commonly used that it is notably absent from any literature. 

The everyman in China would have used the kang for eating & drinking, playing games & even for reading. Nowadays its perfect as a small bijou coffee table or as a plant stand. 

A similar example can be found on page 100 of "Chinese Furniture: A Guide to collecting antiques" by Mazurkewich (Fig. 245).

Dimensions:

86 x 54 x 28 (wxdxh cms)

From China

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