Carved Camphor Chest

In the 18th and 19th century, chests made from naturally fragrant camphor wood were primarily used to transport tea, porcelain, and silks from China to Europe. Prior to its use in sea trade, camphor chests were used in Chinese households as storage units for objects such as blankets and linens. More decorative renditions of these chests were also used as pieces of furniture in wealthy houses.

This carved camphor chest features bracket legs with step-like carved pattern on the sides. Intricately carved motifs of boats with sails, human figurines, cranes, herons, foliage, as well as rosette and floral patterns adorn the lid and the front panel of the chest. Similar patters also curve around the edges, sides and back.