> butterfly

Add a striking and unique creation to any decor while storing books, CDs or personal treasures with this hand-painted Oriental curio cabinet. An original design of the artisan, this colorful cabinet features nine drawers, each embellished with a distinctive and intricately rendered hand-painted scene of butterflies in flight over flowers, in springtime pastels of pink, green, blue, yellow, gold and red. In Chinese thought, butterflies represent change, rebirth and duality. Zhuangzi (370- 300 B.C.E.), a Taoist poet and philosopher, wrote "I once dreamed I was a butterfly fluttering here and there... But did I really dream of the butterfly? Or is the butterfly now dreaming of me?" A legendary story describes a tale of two lovers, Zhu Yintai and Liang Shanbo, who die under tragic circumstances and later find each other as reincarnated butterflies. Hand-painted, golden Shanxi floral motifs flow around the perimeter of the entire cabinet, while wavy adornments define the runners which separate the drawers. In concert with traditional Chinese artisan techniques, "tongfen," or bronze powder, is mixed with the paint to provide extra gleam. Constructed of sturdy Asian poplar and hand-painted to appear antique, this dazzling piece is sure to be a treasured possession for years to come. Measures 31 inches high x 26 inches wide x 16 inches long. AsiaEXP brings you authentic, handcrafted goods from a variety of world cultures. With this purchase you are not only receiving a beautiful product, but you are supporting the artisans and helping them to pursue their craft. This not only ensures the artistic development and financial stability of the talented individuals making these fine products, but also helps to preserve the rich cultural heritage of China. Subtle variations will occur from piece to piece, adding to its unique qualities. Measurements may vary slightly. Furniture