Materials
The most prized Chinese timber is huanghuali, a slow-growing rosewood now essentially extinct; genuine huanghuali pieces are rare and valuable. More commonly we handle elm, walnut, cypress, and lacquered softwoods — the material of provincial cabinetry, which is often extraordinary and undervalued.
Lacquered cabinets
Chinese lacquerwork ranges from cinnabar-red carved lacquer to painted and gilded scenes on black grounds. Provincial pieces — from Shanxi, Gansu and Fujian — often use bold red or ochre grounds with hand-painted panels of figures, landscapes or peonies.
Placing Chinese pieces
Because Chinese cabinetry is architecturally strong, it works particularly well against plain walls and in transitional spaces — entryways, hallways, at the foot of beds. We advise on scale and light before every delivery.
Frequently Asked
Questions collectors ask.
- How can I tell if a Chinese piece is genuinely antique?
- Look at joinery (Chinese antiques use nailless construction), at oxidation on original hardware, at the interior surfaces (which should show honest tool marks), and at the honesty of the lacquer surface. We authenticate every piece in-house.
- Do you carry huanghuali pieces?
- Occasionally. Genuine huanghuali is rare internationally. We only offer pieces we can authenticate and describe with confidence.
Enquire
See these pieces in person at our Mumbai gallery.
Vinterior is at G-74 / G-75 / G-76, An Nasr, Mutton Street, Mumbai. Visits are welcomed by appointment; enquiries by WhatsApp are answered the same day.