Poplar Kitchen Cabinet From Shandong - 19th Century

This antique Chinese kitchen cabinet from Shandong province was originally made in the 19th century and would have been used in a traditional kitchen to store food items and dry noodles. Instantly recognisable as a kitchen cabinet due to its distinctive latticework doors, it reflects the enduring practicality and craftsmanship of northern Chinese domestic furniture. The pale, naturally weathered surface highlights the fine grain and durability of northern elm (yumu, 榆木), while retaining a sense of understated elegance.

Two large storage areas, each with an internal shelf, are separated by three drawers€”providing a versatile arrangement for both everyday essentials and treasured items. The open latticework would have allowed air circulation to keep stored goods fresh. Still ideal for a kitchen, this piece is equally suited to a dining room, living space, or even for discreetly housing a modern sound system.

• Origin: Shandong province, China
• Material: Yumu northern elm wood (榆木)
• Age: 19th century
• Finish: Naturally weathered pale tone
• Upper section: Three lattice-front cupboard doors with internal shelving
• Lower section: Two-panelled cupboard doors with internal storage
• Drawers: Three aligned drawers with iron pulls
• Hardware: Iron ring handles and backplates
• Historical use: Known as a kitchen cabinet for storing dry noodles and foodstuffs in kitchens

A fine example of a northern Chinese kitchen cabinet that blends historical character with enduring practicality.