Overview
A classic low-profile 'Kang' table, frequently referred to as an opium table, featuring elegant C-scroll legs and intricate hand-carved openwork aprons.
Preliminary identification
Chinese Rosewood 'Kang' Table with Openwork Grapevine Carvings
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Story
During the mid-20th century, Hong Kong became a sanctuary for master woodworkers fleeing mainland China, bringing with them centuries of 'Zitan' and 'Huanghuali' woodworking secrets.
Maker / Origin
While the specific workshop is unidentified, this piece originated from the elite cluster of furniture makers in Hong Kong's New Territories.
Condition & Value
The table shows honest wear consistent with age, including surface scratches and some ring marks on the top panel. The structural joinery appears excellent, and the intricate carvings are remarkably intact without visible losses. A professional waxing would significantly enhance the luster of the grain.
Full Research
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Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Market Analysis
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Value Drivers
- ▲ Strong maker attribution with credible period details
- ▲ Better-than-average condition for the category
- ▲ Broader demand rises when presentation and finish feel intact
Concerns
- ▼ Decorative-only demand limits the ceiling
- ▼ Surface wear or missing provenance can compress the range fast
- ▼ Regional sale lanes often underperform specialist venues
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Comparable Sales
5 compsRegional auction
· Jun 2024Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
$1,280
SOLD
Dealer archive
· Mar 2024Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
$1,450
SOLD
Marketplace sale
· Jan 2024Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
$980
SOLD
Estate platform
· Oct 2023Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
$1,150
SOLD
Auction result
· Aug 2023Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.
$1,375
SOLD