Huanghuali
China, 17th century
To-part cabinet with two pairs of hinged doors
The lower apron is carved with dragons and ruyi elements in relief
Of sober rectangular form with plain metal fittings
Inside an empty compartment
Dimensions: 245 x 125 x 53.5 cm
Visually good condition
Provenance : Brought to Europe by a diplomatic family around 1900; private collection, Germany

Huang-hua-li

Huanghuali (Dalbergia odorifera) is a rare rosewood type, which was used in China for traditional medicine and to make precious furniture. Originally known as huali or hualu, the specification ‘huang’ (yellowish-brown) was added in the 20th century to differentiate between aged Huanghuali with a yellowish brown patina and newer, so-called xinhuali. Huanghuali literally means ‘yellowish blooming pear wood’. Very good Huanghuali wood has a shimmering, near translucent surface with a beautiful, abstract grain. The color varies from reddish brown to golden yellow. Huanghuali probably originally came from the island Hainan, but similar kinds also grow in northern Vietnam, Guangxi and Indochina.



Literature: cf. Sarah Handler, Ming Furniture in the light of Chinese Architecture, page 192.



Condition: The cabinet is in good, restored condition with minor signs of wear. Some wood sections may be replacements. Here and there the restoration is more noticeable. The fittings are partially re-attached with nails. The cabinet measures 245 cm in height, 125 cm in width and 53.5 cm in depth.

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