Small Chest with Inner Drawers

1700s

Small Chest with Inner Drawers, 1700s. China, Qing dynasty (1644-1911). Rosewood (huanghuali) and metal; overall: 40.7 x 41.3 x 35.6 cm (16 x 16 1/4 x 14 in.). The Cleveland Museum of Art, Gift of Miss Mildred F. Walker 1982.117 This small chest fitted with drawers and a tray was used to store seals, cosmetic utensils, or other necessities of daily life. Chests were portable and placed on tables or shelves and were secured with a metal pin inserted through the metal loops on the front panels. The rare tropical hardwood (huanghuali) would have been only affordable to individuals of a higher social status. The top lifts up to gain access to the storage area below and allows the front doors to open, revealing 5 interior drawers.