Antique Narrow Altar with Cloud Motif

A remarkable 19th century Chinese altar with a single board top and hand constructed flanges. The top of the table is one solid board into which the legs all blind double tenons. The two legs at either end sit on a foot base that is rounded at the front and rear. Two decorative panels with pierced carving further solidify the structure. Carvings form a pattern of connected prunus blossoms, a symbol of elegant reclusiveness favored by the scholars. The style of the everted flanges borrowed from China's ancient architectural elements. The plain, unadorned apron has cusped outlines and beaded edges leading the eyes to a pair of dramatic spandrels with large cloud/ruyi motif scrolls, a symbol of good fortune. This piece has beautiful patina and is of the perfect scale for a sophisticated interior. 39" to the top of the flange, 36.5" to table top.