Antique Chinese Painted Dragon Storage Chest with Lid, c.1900

A wonderfully characterful antique Chinese painted wooden storage chest with its original fitted lid, dating to around the turn of the 20th century.

Originally made and used as a wooden baby bath, the piece has since become an exceptionally decorative and practical storage chest. Its unusual oval form is constructed from vertically arranged timber boards, strengthened by broad iron bands with domed fixings and fitted with iron carrying handles to either side.

The deep reddish-brown painted surface is decorated throughout with traditional Chinese motifs, including vibrant dragons amongst waves and clouds, together with stylised floral borders. The lid is particularly striking, depicting multiple dragons surrounding a flaming pearl — an auspicious motif traditionally associated with prosperity, power and good fortune.

Years of use have created a beautifully timeworn surface, with extensive areas of rubbed and chipped paint revealing the timber beneath. The ironwork has developed a naturally aged patina, while the darkened interior retains the utilitarian character of its original use.

Now removed from its original function, it makes an unusual and highly decorative storage piece for blankets, textiles, magazines or other household items. It could equally be used simply as a statement object within a contemporary interior.

Its combination of Chinese folk decoration, sculptural form and wonderfully aged surface makes this a particularly distinctive piece.

Good Original Condition

Good antique condition consistent with considerable age and original use. There is extensive historic wear throughout, including losses and flaking to the painted decoration, exposed timber, scratches, marks, old splits and general surface wear. The iron bands and handles show oxidation and aged patination. The interior is heavily darkened and worn from historic use.

These characteristics are an important part of the piece's appearance and history and have been left unrestored.

- Antique Chinese wooden storage chest with fitted lid
- Originally used as a baby bath
- Dating approximately c.1890–1920
- Hand-painted dragon decoration
- Flaming pearl motif to the lid
- Oval coopered wooden construction
- Original-style iron strengthening bands
- Iron carrying handles to both sides
- Deep red-brown painted ground
- Exceptional naturally distressed patina
- Useful decorative storage

A strong contrast piece for a contemporary neutral interior. Style against limewashed plaster, natural stone or warm timber and allow the painted surface to provide the colour. It would work particularly well beside a sofa, beneath a console or as a standalone decorative storage piece.