Tables and cabinets that are unusually short were used on the kang, a brick platform built into houses in the northern part of China .The kang could be heated from the exterior by coals and firewood and provided a warm place for the family to sleep and spend the long winter months. Short tables are also used in the elaborate Chinese beds as a place to keep a book and personal belongings. This table has everted flanges, recessed panel legs with pierce work on the spandrels. The apron has a wavy pattern that resembles water. The rich red lacquer finish makes a nice contrast to the brown color panel on each of the legs. The panels have similar pierced carving of a Qilin, a mythical creature that brings wealth and rank. The back of the table is plain, so its original purpose was to place against a wall. The dimensions are 45 inches wide,13 inches deep, 9 inches high.

Cleaned and relacquered, wear consistent with age, some discoloration and scratches on table surface