Burr Elm Tianjin Sideboard - 19th Century Material - Catalpa Wood This wonderfully carved Indian house

This wonderfully carved Indian house shrine would have been set into a wall and used to house the family's favorite deity in a Hindu household

variations and imperfections consistent with age and handcraft

Together they symbolise the eternal divine process of creation

This elegant antique Qing dynasty Chinese altar table dates to the 19th century

Its distinct darker patina sets it apart from others that are often a bleached colour

Burr Elm Tianjin Sideboard - 19th Century Material - Catalpa Wood This wonderfully carved Indian houseThe antique Tianjin sideboard is particularly special with solid burr elm drawers and doors. It dates to the 19th century (Qing dynasty 1644 1911). Burr wood (yingmu ) comes from abnormal tree aberrations. They were considered valuable wood by furniture makers. The body is constructed from northern elm (yumu) and all the brass hardware is original. Tianjin sideboards like this one come from the port city of Tianjin & surrounding areas in North China.