China Cabinet

The earliest iterations of the China cabinet were essentially display cabinets or cupboards designed to store and showcase valuable porcelain, often imported from China during the 17th and 18th centuries. This period coincided with the European fascination with Chinese porcelain, which was considered a luxury item. Wealthy families in Europe and North America began seeking ways to display these treasures. The earliest cabinets were often part of large, ornate furniture pieces or armor. These cabinets had doors and glass windows for showcasing the porcelain, but they were not always specifically designed for the sole purpose of displaying China. The 19th -Century saw the embraced the use of exotic woods, such as mahogany, and featured intricate inlays and carvings. Cabinets from this period typically featured glass doors with wooden frames, as well as detailed woodwork, and sometimes mirrors or decorative elements. There was also an increased emphasis on functionality, with many China cabinets incorporating shelves, drawers, and compartments to organize different types of China or collectibles. However, this china cabinet on display was not elaborate, and its design is pretty simple. Inside the cabin you’ll find that there is plenty of China, but near the top we’ll find less elegant glass dishes. The dishes in the cabinet were most likely using during celebrations or family events.