A 17th century Chinese scholar's table in Ju wood

The square table is made of Chinese elm (Jumu) with beautiful, well-defined grain. It is a rare model with an interesting feature: wooden reinforcements connect the legs to the tabletop. These four very effective reinforcements are discreet and allow for greater ease of use. The 4 base of legs, weakened by repeated washings, were replaced some time ago; everything else is original, and the reinforcements are as strong as the day they were made. The tabletop has a history; it is stained, scratched, marked, and burned, like the wrinkles and scars of an old man. This table possesses a refined elegance. 925 x 925 x 733 mm. Chinese cabinetmaking from the late Ming period, 17th century or earlier.