Rare and Wonderful 19th Century Chinese Tea Shop with Rare Contents

Live Auction

26" (66 cm.) w. x 16"h. x 15"d. The wooden-framed shop has unusual arched front entry supported by richly lacquered green and gold columns and two narrow side-front walls with display windows framed in cast brass; the facade has red lacquered finish and "Asiatica Tee Handlung" lettered sign and the brass-framed windows are set in blue painted walls with gold accents and applique images of Asian people. The lacquered finish continues around the sides and back with paper-framed engravings as accents. The floor is lithographed paper with heavy lacquered finish,and the side and back walls are completely fitted with shelving,slant bins and 16 tea drawers or cabinets,all with original red or black lacquered finish. There is a matching free standing counter of red lacquer with green lacquer top and brass coin slot,and a matching cast iron scale with brass trays. The shelves are lavishly fitted with an array of silk and paper-wrapped treasures,a carved bone frame,celluloid rickshaw,and,notably,26 very rare tea tins with various lithographed scenes. A bisque doll with amber-complexion and original costume stands behind the counter. Excellent condition. Maker unknown,late-19th century shop of outstanding quality and complexity,rare contents.