This distinctive and unusual table comes from Shanxi province, northern China circa 1900. It still has its original back and decorative red lacquers, however these have faded over time to more subtler tones and wear is more evident around the feet and edges of the table. The front apron and spandrels are decorated with a highly stylised scrolling pattern that was in vogue during the Qing dynasty and which gives the table an art deco feel that would now fit into a modern setting.