Painted Qinghai Tiger Cabinet - 19th Century

Striking and wonderfully characterful, this rare 19th century painted cabinet from Qinghai Province celebrates the bold visual language of China’s high-altitude borderlands, where Tibetan and Mongol cultural traditions strongly shaped local craft. The cabinet’s upper doors feature an expressive tiger motif, painted with immense presence and folkloric energy, while the lower panels are decorated with floral arrangements in vases, offering a softer counterpoint to the animal imagery above.

The paintwork is entirely original, with a beautifully aged surface showing rich patina, wear, and depth of colour—an authentic record of long use and regional artistry. Inside, the main upper compartment includes a shelf for practical storage, while the lower compartment is open, ideal for larger items.

• Origin: Qinghai Province, China
• Date / Age: 19th Century (Qing Dynasty)
• Materials: Painted wood, original iron ring pulls
• Features: Original painted tiger motif to upper section; floral vase panels below; two-level storage
• Condition: Wear, markings, and surface losses consistent with age and use; structurally sound
• Dimensions: W87 x D37 x H96 cm