Round-corner wood-hinged cabinet (gui)
16th century
This so-called “round-corner cabinet” is characterized by the curved shape of its upper corners. Measuring six feet in height—almost twice the size of more typical cabinets—this example features the beautiful grain of the single-planked doors made of the famed huanghuali wood. As the cabinet-makers were adept at highlighting the best features of the wood, they devised an ingenious joinery system that connected various parts seamlessly without the use of nails. Molding on the edges is unique, and dates the cabinet at circa 1580. Inside the cabinet is a coating of mud with lacquer that acts as a stabilizing factor, preventing the wood from warping. These cabinets would have served as storage, holding books, scrolls and other scholar's accoutrements.
Huanghuali wood
72 x 37 x 20 in. (182.88 x 93.98 x 50.8 cm)
Sarah Ferris Fuller Memorial Collection and an anonymous donor
89.20.2
