Elm Altar Table From Shanxi - 19th Century Material - Porcelain creates a striking effect that

creates a striking effect that shifts beautifully in the light

delicate painted detailing

and the frame is poplar

a legendary Hindu guardian sea creature

Elm Altar Table From Shanxi - 19th Century Material - Porcelain creates a striking effect thatThis Chinese Ming style altar table dates from the 19th Century and was once covered in a burgundy lacquer. It is constructed from a single plank of thick northern elm wood (yumu). Much of the lacquer has worn away over the years leaving a pleasing patchy rustic look. We have sensitively restored this piece conserving its original finish. Altar tables were used for ancestor worship in China. Usually, a family ancestor portrait would be hung above the