Red Elm Altar Table From Shanxi - 19thC Material - Mulberry Wood Dimensions: W32 x D7 x

Dimensions: W32 x D7 x H32

Each lower sunburst panel is centred with a carved human face

- dated - 19thC

On stepped octagonal lotus decorated base - made from gilded copper alloy

19 x 16 x 68 cm tall

Red Elm Altar Table From Shanxi - 19thC Material - Mulberry Wood Dimensions: W32 x D7 xThis altar table has a beautiful old red elm top. The legs and scroll ends have been replaced with excellent quality new red elm. The piece remains faithful to the Ming style. Red elm, also known as zelkova or southern elm (jumu) is considered superior to it's northern elm (yumu) cousin as it has a more refined grain structure. Altar tables were used for ancestor worship in China. Usually a family ancestor portrait would be hung above the table & joss