Red & Gold Painted Altar Cabinet From Central Tibet - 19th Century

This richly painted altar cabinet was made in Central Tibet in the 19th century, and displays the deep red lacquer and gilt decoration that define Tibetan ritual furniture. The front is arranged in a grid of framed panels, each containing finely rendered gilt dragon roundels, representing protection and power. The remaining panels feature gilt phoenix motifs, symbols of renewal, virtue, and auspicious transformation, all framed by scrolling floral ornament. The surface retains its original lacquer and gilding, softened through long use.

The cabinet opens through four hinged doors, with the upper pair retaining original incised brass hardware. The lower doors are secured by a traditional secret locking peg accessed through the top compartment, a secure Tibetan mechanism used to protect ritual objects. Inside are two substantial storage chambers. The structure stands on square scroll feet, giving the cabinet both stability and sculptural presence. With its gilt dragons and phoenixes and richly preserved surface, it functions as a powerful decorative and cultural focal point.

• Origin: Central Tibet
• Date: 19th century
• Materials: Painted wood with gilding
• Features: Gilt dragon roundels; gilt phoenix panels; original incised brass hardware on upper doors; secret locking peg for lower doors accessed via the top compartment; four hinged doors; two interior storage chambers; square scroll feet
• Condition: Age related wear to paint and gilding; structurally sound with a stable, patinated surface
• Dimensions: Width 161 × Depth 53 × Height 118 cm

A commanding example of 19th century Tibetan painted furniture with richly symbolic dragon and phoenix decoration.