When Urban sprawl and infrastructure building reached ancient Chinese cities and villages in the 1980's, old buildings were demolished in favor of growth. Chinese entrepreneurs found trading architecture artifacts a lucrative business, as intricate window and door panels found a second life as decorative objects at home and abroad. When the demand exceeded the supply, thievery were rampant in sacking historical preserved homes. The government stepped in and as of the early years of this century, the exportation of Chinese architectural artifacts were banned. Punishment was severe, leading to stiff fines, confiscation of containers of goods and cancellations of export licenses. UNESCO preserved several old cities and if one should visit Salem MA, one can visit Yu Tang, a late Qing dynasty merchants' home was originally located in southeastern China and re-erected at the Peabody Essex Museum. Yin Yu Tang opens to the public in June 2003 and the original door and window panels are on display.

This pair of repeat geometric pattern lattice window panels are double sided, which meant it was used in an area such as a covered walkway where good appearance was vital on both sides. Each piece of wood has a beading and it is put together with well planned joinery. The panel is like a puzzle, and the frame holds all the pieces together. The mahogany finish is even and seems to be in good condition. After handling architectural artifacts for so many years, it is my observation that each region has its own style, and this particular repeat geometric pattern could be from the Zhejiang, Jiangsu Province of Southeast China.


Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: The panels are intact but due to handling the finish is no long pristine. There is wear and tear and small chips. The wood pieces are in good order.

Origin:
China

Materials & Techniques:
Wood

Details:
Country of Origin: China
What type of item is it? Vintage / Antique / Used

Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; The panels are intact but due to handling the finish is no long pristine. There is wear and tear and small chips. The wood pieces are in good order.