Antique Lintel with Relief Carvings w195 The quality of workmanship and

The quality of workmanship and carvings for what is essentially a storage container indicates the likely wealth of the original owner

trunks like these were extremely popular in Chinese homes

but the style is also known as an 'Official's Hat' chair as the headrest was also thought to resemble the winged hats of Chinese mandarins of the Ming dynasty

but these are faithful reproductions

They are great for table decoration or as ornaments

Antique Lintel with Relief Carvings w195 The quality of workmanship andHebei, circa 1900 This interesting carving once formed the lintel over an entranceway in a Chinese home, with similar carvings positioned around the walls. It dates from the turn of the last century, where it was produced in Hebei province, eastern China. The main section is arched and carved in relief, incorporating various figures at each end perhaps scenes of travellers leaving or arriving home. The narrower middle section shows a floral pattern.