It is rare to find a piece of Chinese furniture with provenance. This table here is an exception. On the back of the table top is written in Chinese characters, the maker in Wei Hei and the name of the hall, belonging to the mansion where the table was purchased for use. Wei Hei is located on the northern coast of Shandong Province in Eastern China. It was once a base for the Chinese navy. In 1898 it was leased to Britain as a trading center until 1930. The British presence in the city might explain the table's arts and craft appearance. The square table top sits on a recessed apron which is supported by a square frame of four straight legs. Four stretchers are used to hold the legs in place. The legs end in hoof feet. The finish is a rich red brown color. The table can serve multi purposes as a stool or table, or a base for a plant.