A Huanghuali Table, Zhuo Qing Dynasty, 18th/19th Century

the rectangular panelled top above a straight waist and apron, the humpback stretchers with vertical braces dividing each end into four and each side into seven, the legs of square section  

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

The table is in very good condition with the exception of minor surface scratches and wear commensurate with age.
"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."

Compare a huanghuali table with similar latticed apron, illustrated in Gustav Ecke, Chinese Domestic Furniture, Rutland, 1962, pl. 65, and sold in our New York rooms, 10^th/11^th April 1986, lot 337; a zitan example sold in our Hong Kong rooms, 30^th October 991, lot 358; and a larger example sold at Christie’s New York, 5^th June 1986, lot 400.

It is interesting to note that the vertical struts between the apron and stretcher derive from architectural construction. According to Sarah Handler in Ming Furniture in the Light of Chinese Architecture, Berkley, 2005, p. 155, ‘in the pillar-and-beam type of framework used in north China, two pillars support a horizontal beam upon which are set short vertical posts or struts to lift another beam, which in turn has struts’.  See the roof construction depicted in an illustration from the Lu Ban jing [The classic of Lu Ban], where the struts are similarly double mitered on the beans, published ibid., p. 155 (top right).