Chinese Black Lacquer Cabinet with Carved Soapstone Figures & Mother of Pearl
Annihilate the landfill, adopt a hand-carved garden scene that outlived its first family
This mid-century Chinese export black lacquer cabinet is the real deal: hand-carved soapstone figures in traditional garden scenes, mother of pearl inlay, and that deep piano-black finish that made chinoiserie a Cambridge living room staple for decades. The carved maidens and pavilion details show genuine artisan work, not decals. Gold-painted geometric border frames the whole composition. Condition is honest vintage—expect minor lacquer wear consistent with age, but all soapstone figures appear intact and secure.
The D'Beetle Difference
• Genuine Carved Soapstone Appliqués: Each figure is individually carved and applied, with dimensional robes, faces, and traditional hairstyles. The bamboo, pagodas, and landscape elements combine painted detail with carved stone.
• Functional Storage Layout: Top drawer plus two-door cabinet below. Appears approximately 36" tall x 24" wide based on proportions. Perfect bar cabinet or entryway statement.
• Gold Lattice Border Detail: Hand-painted geometric fretwork border frames all panels, consistent with quality Hong Kong export pieces from the 1950s-70s.
Measurements See tape-measure photos for exact dimensions.