Antique Painted Chinese Apothecary-Style Cabinet with 57 Drawers and Calligraphy
An imposing early 20th century Chinese apothecary cabinet formed as a 57-drawer bank of drawers, layered in richly patinated paint and animated with hand-painted calligraphy. A rare balance of disciplined utility and poetic surface.
Key Features
• Antique Chinese apothecary cabinet with 57 individual drawers
• Traditional bank of drawers form used for herb and medicine storage
• Hand-painted Chinese calligraphy across every drawer front and frame
• Earthy orange top coat over dragged brown base paint
• Deep drawers, several internally compartmented
• Primitive iron drop-ring pulls with original patina
• Raised and fielded sides and top panels
• Decorative fretwork-cut skirting to the lower edge
Full Description
Dating to the early 1900s, this exceptional Chinese apothecary cabinet — also described within the trade as a bank of drawers — reflects the enduring practicality of traditional multi-drawer storage furniture. Historically associated with the organisation of dried herbs and medicinal ingredients, such cabinets formed the architectural backbone of apothecary interiors.
The façade is composed of fifty-seven drawers arranged in a disciplined grid. Each drawer front is individually inscribed with black Chinese calligraphy, extending across the entire surface and framed by further vertical inscriptions to the outer stiles and a horizontal panel along the upper rail. The repetition creates rhythm and structure, transforming functional storage into a cohesive visual composition.
The surface displays a beautifully layered painted finish. A dragged brown ground lies beneath a warm, earthy orange top coat, now gently thinned through time. Areas of natural wear, edge abrasion and paint loss allow the script to emerge in striking contrast. The cabinet retains a deeply atmospheric surface — unrestored and honest — carrying the patina that collectors seek in early provincial Chinese furniture.
Architectural refinement is evident in the raised and fielded side and top panels, while a fretwork-cut apron softens the lower edge with subtle ornament. Each drawer is fitted with a primitive iron drop-ring pull, darkened by decades of handling. The drawers are notably deep, with several internally divided into compartments, making this bank of drawers both visually commanding and highly practical.
Partial translation of the inscriptions suggests references to agricultural labour and mining, with the upper horizontal text possibly reading “Dig and dig with great effort.” While precise interpretation remains challenging, the calligraphy adds narrative depth and cultural resonance, elevating the cabinet beyond simple storage.
Dimensions
Height: 167 cm
Width: 100.5 cm
Depth: 54 cm
Materials
Solid wood construction
Layered painted finish
Hand-painted Chinese calligraphy
Iron drop-ring drawer pulls
Condition
Displays expected signs of age including surface wear, paint losses, fading and edge abrasions consistent with early 20th century Chinese furniture. Structurally sound, drawers operate well. The patina remains untouched, preserving authenticity and character.
Origin / Period
China
Circa early 1900s
Styling Suggestions
Its tall, vertical proportions allow it to function as a statement storage cabinet in hallways, studios or dining rooms. Equally effective in contemporary interiors seeking contrast, this apothecary cabinet pairs beautifully with neutral plaster walls, natural linen, aged timber and stone. The disciplined geometry of the bank of drawers offsets softer organic materials.
To discover related pieces, explore our Chinese and Asian antique furniture collection.
FAQ
Is this cabinet suitable for daily use?
Yes. The drawers are deep and robust, several compartmented for organising smaller items, documents or collections.
Is the painted surface original?
The layered finish, wear patterns and patina strongly indicate an original or period surface.
What does the calligraphy represent?
Elements appear to reference labour such as agriculture and mining. While full translation is complex, the inscriptions contribute cultural authenticity.
Unique Points
• Rare 57-drawer apothecary cabinet configuration
• Traditional Chinese bank of drawers form
• Extensive hand-painted calligraphy across façade
• Strong original layered painted surface
• Combines decorative artistry with practical storage
All your questions answered below...
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Delivery typically takes 5–10 working days, depending on location and order timing.
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