Late 19th Century Anglo-Chinese Partner's Desk

Stunning, Authentic and Unique piece.

Measurements: 53 1/2" wide, 26 1/2" deep, 33" high
8 deep drawers
4 separate pieces: 2 drawer towers, topper, footrest

Provenance: Family piece from US missionary in post imperial China. Includes an ornate fretwork footrest. Brought back to US when the couple were expelled during the Boxer Revolution.

19th century China saw the influence of European design. During this time bans on imports were lifted in China, allowing for different styles of furniture to be seen. The counterpart to the traditional Chinese calligraphy table was the European writing desk, which was not a part of the Chinese furniture repertoire. One variation of the European writing desk was the partner's desk, first developed in England for use by bankers. The Chinese ultimately adapted the form for their use.

This particular partner's desk perfectly illustrates how the Chinese adapted Western styling to their own sensibilities. The piece came about because Chinese artisans were not content to copy Western styles, but instead, allowed themselves to be inspired as they adapted new forms for their own use. The desk's eight drawers illustrate how the Chinese were interested in implementing the functionality of European furniture.