A “Long Life” wedding marriage chest

China, an exquisite original antique hand made, hand carved, and hand lacquered wooden traveling wedding marriage or Dowry chest with detailed “Long Life” (Shou) marriage symbols that appear on both sides of the fretwork panels- with carved characters and original solid brass hardware- a beautiful architectural master work from an old Chinese collection, Qing dynasty, 19th century.

The front panel is removable and opens to a compartment meant to receive and safely store wedding clothing and precious household treasures such as family linens or gifts. The side panels are adorned with wonderful bird and floral carvings set within lovely geometrical accents and finished with brass ornaments and scroll handles. Celebration foo dogs appear and are carved on top. Each of several side panels depict delicately carved and painted Chinese characters in the act of standing on clouds or discussing dowries in happy celebrations. The pierced cornices create wonderful surrounds.

A truly amazing work of art that will bring countless conversations and enjoyment among friends and family.
Would make a special wedding gift !

Measurements: 40 inches high and 39 inches wide and 23 inches deep

Only one.

Lifetime guarantee of authenticity: All of our Asian works of art come with our lifetime authenticity guarantee.

Our gallery based in Newport, Rhode Island USA has been dealing in authentic Japanese and fine Asian art, garden ornaments, lanterns and water basins for 25 years. Our president personally travels across America as well as Japan and Europe each year to meet his network partners who assist him in finding best examples. He personally inspects each antique work of art to ensure its old age, authenticity and quality condition.

The meaning of Long Life (Shou)

Chinese Mandarin character “Shou”- is a Chinese character signifying longevity. It is a Chinese traditional ornament design, commonly used as a decoration symbol of marriage. Outside of China, it is also used in the United States, Europe, East Asia and Southeast Asia.