{"product_id":"antique-chinese-storage-chest-with-lid","title":"Antique Chinese Painted Dragon Storage Chest with Lid, c.1900","description":"\u003cp dir=\"auto\" class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchorContainer\"\u003eA wonderfully characterful antique Chinese painted wooden storage chest with its original fitted lid, dating to around the turn of the 20th century.\u003cspan class=\"PDq2pG_selectionAnchor\"\u003e\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eOriginally 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eThe 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eYears 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eNow 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.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp dir=\"auto\"\u003eIts combination of Chinese folk decoration, sculptural form and wonderfully aged surface makes this a particularly distinctive piece.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Odloft","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54121133998427,"sku":null,"price":365.0,"currency_code":"GBP","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/1024\/1330\/4155\/files\/bd0dc566-9622-45bc-8428-58391d35f27e.png?v=1789823183","url":"https:\/\/odloft.com\/products\/antique-chinese-storage-chest-with-lid","provider":"Odloft","version":"1.0","type":"link"}