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Greetings.

I have a table form stand made of what I believe is zitan. It is small, about 21" wide, 8" tall, and 7" deep.

Additional photos of the table can be viewed here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/23676403@N07/sets/72157636849391216/

In my opinion, the wood is near identical to that of a zitan table I had confirmed by Curtis Evarts (curator of the Museum of Classical Chinese Furniture 1990-1996).

First photo is of the table.

The second photo is a close up photo of the table top. This is one of the areas where you can still see the crab claw grain despite the very fine finish and black patina.

The third photo shows a close up of one of the carved portions of the leg, just above the peg foot.

In the third photo, it appears the black patina is crystalline or finely granular. This seems to be true on all surfaces that would have regular contact with people touching it(ie. the table top).

Can someone explain this?

My theory is the the black patina is the result of an accumulation of the resin (the red dye for which zitan is famous for) which over time dries and crystallizes on the surface of the wood.

In areas of heavy contact / handling, the crystals flatten out, creating a shiny smooth black surface on the wood. In areas with little to no contact, the crystals pile up and form a more granular appearance.

Can anyone offer a better explanation?

I do not have any other zitan pieces to compare ti to. If someone has a zitan stand, preferably late Ming to early Qing, if they could post close up photos of the black patina for comparison, that would be very helpful.

Thanks.

Hi Tim,

Where did you get this from?

Are you selling it?

Hi,
I read an article stating that if you use ordinary oil for protecting hardwood, it will turn black. Teak oil was recommended to keep the natural colors
regards
Ernest

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