A Huanghuali Recessed-Leg Table, Pingtouan Late Ming Dynasty

the solid top with 'ice-plate' edge, the round 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 solid top table is in good condition with the exception of a replaced apron to one end, minor patching to the two corners and minor surface scratches.
"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."

Tables of this minimalist form appear to have been one of the most versatile pieces of furniture. Illustrations from Ming and Qing sources reveal its multiple uses, from altars to painting tables and side tables, with its light and simple form allowing it to be easily moved from one location to another as required. This classic form has its origins in architectural forms as evidenced in its bare structural lines. Historically referred to as a ‘character one table type’ (yi zi zhou shi) as the single horizontal stroke of the Chinese character for the numeral ‘one’ bears resemblance to this linear table, this descriptive term is taken from the Wanli period edition of the Lu Ban jing jiang jia jing (The Classic of Lu Ban and the Craftsman’s Mirror).

 

This table is notable for its large size and the single panel top shows the exceptional quality and enormity of size of the tree from which it was fashioned. Compare 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, but with double panels, offered from this collection, lot 11.

 

A related table utilised as an altar, before which men give thanks to their ancestors, is illustrated in the album painting Portraits of Emperor Yongzheng in Ploughing and Weaving, included in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum. Paintings by the Court Artists of the Qing Court, Hong Kong, 1996, pl. 11, jia 23.