An important Transitional zitan calligrapher's table, China, 17th century and later. Photo Nagel Auktionen
The cleated rectangular top above three frieze drawers, raised on square slightly tapered legs with pierced angles and ending in scroll feet, fine 'huang' patina. 90x174x48 cm. Estimate 12 000-15 000 €
Originally with fixed panel frieze, likely adapted during the reign of Qianlong to accommodate extant three drawer configuration.
The emperor Yongle (1403-24) passed an edict that the timber was to be used for him exclusively. This law was not changed throughout the balance of the Ming, and the entire Qing dynasty. This law/edict was further tightened up during the reign of Qianlong (1736-95) ensuring that none of the raw material could be wasted, and that all damaged / unused furniture to be recycled his exclusive use, thus any furniture previously out of possession of the royal household (it is the nature of household furniture to be passed from generation to generation, often ending up in less sophisticated environment than which it was intended) had to be returned, without exception. These laws / edicts were far more strict than current legislation. Anyone other than the emperor & his immediate family found to be in possession of anything made of this timber were to be summarily excecuted.
Certified as Pterocarpus Santalinus by The Royal Botanic Gardens Kew (Kew reference number 132-1163).
Nagel Auktionen. Asian Art, 2013/05/10. http://www.auction.de