A 'huamu'-inset 'huanghuali'-veneer square-corner cabinet (Fangjiaogui), Qing dynasty, 18th century

Collection of Reverend Richard Fabian.

Sotheby's New York, 15th March 2016, lot 52.

New Jersey Private Collection.

The present cabinet is an exemplary example of a particular type using huanghuali veneer and inset with either huamu or sometimes dalishi marble. By combining different woods, the craftsman could simultaneously highlight the distinctive qualities of each and create a pleasing, well-balanced composition with the rounded insets of attractively figured burlwood offsetting the angularity of the massive form. A cabinet of the same size and and inlay composition but with white marble, was sold in these rooms, 28th September 1989, lot 305. A cabinet with burlwood inlay and with its hat chest was also sold in these rooms, 1st June 1994, lot 563. The cabinet is considered the pair to one in the collection of Arthur M. Sackler that was sold at Christie's New York, 18th March 2009, lot 367.