Cabinet

What is the finest and most prestigious furniture in China? A tropical hardwood table with jade inlays? Or this brightly colored lacquered cabinet? Many connoisseurs of Chinese furniture would answer hardwood furniture; in fact, throughout China's long history including the period when these pieces were created, the majority of furniture made for the well-to-do and for the court was lacquered. Lacquer was expensive, and just owning it was a sign of prestige. It provided opportunities to display symbols of wealth, good fortune, and an ideal lifestyle so prevalent in Chinese arts.

This cabinet is decorated all over in colored lacquers of crimson, gold, amber, brown, and black. The main scene depicted on the two doors presents a scholarly gathering of high-ranking officials in a large pavilion situated within a remote mountain setting. They engage activities such as enjoying music, reading, and painting. This type of gathering exemplifies the ideal of removing oneself from urban society and retreating into a reclusive life. Filling in the remaining spaces are auspicious motifs such as the fungus of immortality, ingot, and coral.

The decoration on the side panels is separated into two parts. The top scene on both panels presents long-tailed pheasants in a flower garden, symbolizing prosperity and nobility. In the bottom scene of both panels are court officials engaging in outdoor activities. The edges of the cabinet's frame are decorated with floral scrolls alternating with peaches, peach blossoms, pomegranates, and plums. They relate to the theme of the "Three Abundances" (sanduo), which are long life, blessings, and many sons.