Description
A dramatic mid-century Chinese export folding bar cabinet executed in black lacquer with hand-cut mother-of-pearl figural inlay depicting court attendants, lanterns, garden landscapes, and architectural motifs. Designed for the Western luxury market, the cabinet opens to reveal a fitted bar interior with stepped shelving, bottle wells, and drawer storage, transforming from an elegant console into a theatrical entertaining piece. Richly decorative and sculptural, this bar exemplifies the Chinoiserie aesthetic popular in postwar interiors. Wear, alignment issues, and functional quirks consistent with age are present and reflected in pricing; the piece remains structurally sound and visually impactful, offering excellent potential for light restoration or use as a statement decorative bar.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Needs Restoration
Condition Notes: Vintage condition with notable wear consistent with age and use. Lacquer loss and surface wear present to the top. Doors show misalignment when closed, and one interior drawer sticks and does not slide smoothly. Additional scattered wear and minor losses throughout. Structurally sound and visually striking; would benefit from professional adjustment or light restoration.
Dimensions:
Height: 42.5 in.
Width: 72 in.
Depth: 20 in.
Category: Bar Carts & Dry Bars
Origin: China
Materials: Lacquer, Mother-of-Pearl
Shipping:For an exact shipping quote, please email us at help@chairishauctions.com with your zip code. Exact shipping costs are dependent on destination, but can range between $230-$1500 for large/bulky items shipped to the continental United States. Note: there may be additional charges for ferry destinations. No local pickup for this auction. International: No International Shipping for this auction. Location: This item ships from Enumclaw, WA
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition:
Alterations: Unknown
Imperfections: Needs Restoration
Condition Notes: Vintage condition with notable wear consistent with age and use. Lacquer loss and surface wear present to the top. Doors show misalignment when closed, and one interior drawer sticks and does not slide smoothly. Additional scattered wear and minor losses throughout. Structurally sound and visually striking; would benefit from professional adjustment or light restoration.
Dimensions:
Height: 42.5 in.
Width: 72 in.
Depth: 20 in.
Category: Bar Carts & Dry Bars
Origin: China
Materials: Lacquer, Mother-of-Pearl
Shipping:
Your purchase is protected:
In the rare event that the item did not conform to the lot description in the sale, Chairish Auctions specialists are here to help. Buyers may return the item for a full refund provided you notify Chairish Auctions within 5 days of receiving the item.
Condition
Unknown; Needs Restoration; Vintage condition with notable wear consistent with age and use. Lacquer loss and surface wear present to the top. Doors show misalignment when closed, and one interior drawer sticks and does not slide smoothly. Additional scattered wear and minor losses throughout. Structurally sound and visually striking; would benefit from professional adjustment or light restoration.
Buyer's Premium
20%
Vintage Chinese Export Black Lacquer Mother-of-Pearl Folding Bar Cabinet, C. 1950s
Estimate $1,400-$4,200
Starting Price
$300
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Well Collected: Vintage, Art & Interiors I
May 22, 2026 6:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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