A CHINESE RED GROUND PAINTED "PHOENIX AND DRAGONS" ARMOIRE, 19TH AND 20TH CENTURY, of tall rectangular form and composed of two parts with removable two short doors top, centering two pairs of addorsed phoenix amidst scrolling clouds set within a border of stylized undulating leafy vine, above a conforming body with hinged long doors enclosing two contesting five claw dragons with long sinuous bodies and fierce expressions spewing stylized flames, opening to a single shelf interior and covered compartment, over two facing short dragons with matching expressions and details amidst scrolling clouds over stylized mountain peaks and rolling waves, above two dragons flanking a flaming pearl amidst similarly detailed clouds and set over mountainous peaks surrounded by tall waves, interior fitted with one shelf within undulating leafy vine borders and a baseboard of two roaring dragons with long stylized curling vine bodies flanking a flaming pearl. Height: 7' 9" Width: 41" Depth: 19 3/4"` Provenance: Collection of Michele Busse, Louisville, Kentucky

Parts appear to be 19th century with later replacements, restored, and covered in dark varnish, but have age cracks, uneven surface planing, panel and frame gaps. The bronze hardware is later. The painting and raised details are later and have cracked line areas from wood shrinkage, scratches, surface residue around some hinges, and buildup in crevices throughout.  Simpson Galleries strongly encourages in-person inspection of items by the bidder. Statements by Simpson Galleries regarding the condition of objects are for guidance only and should not be relied upon as statements of fact and do not constitute a representation, warranty, or assumption of liability by Simpson Galleries. All lots offered are sold "AS IS.”