A Large Chinese Apothecary Cabinet

19th or 20th century, elmwood, the rectangular case features 54 drawers, each with four divided sections to the interior, above three larger drawers at the bottom of the cabinet, each drawer with metal pull to center encircled with Chinese calligraphy inscriptions, export wax seal to left hand side of the cabinet.

66 x 40 x 21 1/2 in.

Private Collection

Purchased in Singapore.

Chinese apothecary cabinets were originally used to store and organize medicinal herbs and ingredients in traditional Chinese pharmacies or by doctors. Each drawer was often divided into multiple sections and the door labeled with hand painted Chinese characters reflecting its contents, allowing for efficient access and organization.

Good estate condition; old wood that has been repurposed and painted to create the cabinet.