Chinese Qing Republic Guanpixiang Table-Top Scholar’s Cosmetic Chest

Chinese late Qing to Republic period guanpixiang table-top chest with a mansard-style hinged top that lifts to expose a single shallow tray above a pair of doors opening to five drawers with metal pulls all upon an attached base. A circular lockplate with ruyi-form clasp is on the front. Two side carrying handles. These chests were typically utilized by men to hold seals and related accessories while women were known to use them for cosmetics storage. Early 20th century. 15” high x 14 1/2” wide x nearly 9 3/4” deep. Weighs 13 lbs. Good, solid overall condition. There is a crack in the wood on the top. The four hinges holding the doors are replacement hardware. One door needs to be reattached. There is a small wood loss on the bottom. One interior door pull has a small loss. Overall wear and wood shrinkage consistent with its age and use.