This elegant antique Chinese pair of half tables are from Shanxi province and date to the 18th century - Qing dynasty (1644–1911) - they're made in the classic Ming dynasty style. Pairs of tables as old as these are rare to find in China, especially with their original high quality brass hardware like these. The tables are crafted from northern elm wood (yumu 榆木) which has developed a beautiful patina over time. The original burgundy lacquer has worn on the tabletops but remains on the drawer faces, sides and legs. 

These tables have a beautiful patina and it would be a real shame to split them up. The interiors of the drawers are strong indicators of their age. These tables can be referred to as 'his & hers' with one with a single drawer and the other with double drawers. 

Half tables (半桌 Bàn zhuō) have existed in China since before the Ming dynasty but rose to prominence in the Qing dynasty. They're often depicted in Chinese paintings such as the ones in the photos. Half tables were often made in pairs and used butting to square tables for additional space for dining. Half tables were incredibly versatile and used for serving food & wine, but also as standalone tables in the home. Note that a half table is defined by its depth being less than half its width. A wine table is usually at least as deep as it is wide. Hence the terms often being interchangeable. 

Although this is a pair of tables, they are priced individually. 

From China

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