A Huanghuali Recessed-Leg Table, Pingtouan Late Ming Dynasty

the panelled top with 'ice-plate' edge, the beaded square legs joined by a plain straight apron with apron-head spandrels and the front and back legs secured by pairs of cross braces

Purchased from Hei Hung-Lu, Hong Kong, late 1980s/early 1990s.

The table is in good condition with the exception of replaced aprons to both sides, possibly replaced end aprons, minor loss to the inside edge of the bottom of one leg and light marks and scratches to the top.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

The enduring elegance of this classical table is evident in its constant popularity though the generations with no changes made other than variations in dimensions to suit the household. George N. Kates, in Chinese Household Furniture, New York, 1948, p. 78, suggests that it may have originally been collapsible, the flanges of the apron possibly serving as braces. The form was used in all classes of Chinese society, with the status only reveal in the quality of the wood employed and the level of craftsmanship. The smoothly finished surfaces and joinery and huanghuali it is constructed from indicate that this table would have belonged to a member of the court or wealthy scholar.

 

A slightly smaller table, from the collection of Dr Gustav Ecke, is illustrated ibid., pl. 30; a slightly larger example, attributed to the 17^th century and with slightly thicker legs and frames, from the collection of Robert H. Ellsworth collection, sold at Christie’s Hong Kong, 17^th March 2015, lot 42; and another sold at Bonhams New York, 17^th September 2013, lot 8131. See also a table of this type offered from this collection, lot 14.