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Hi All,

We just purchased a red lacquered Chinese wedding chest in a quasi-Ming style, circa 19th or early 20th Century, and I was surprised to find the mark pictured here painted inside - I haven't been able to translate it, but perhaps it denoted luck, or health or fertility?

I'd really appreciate any thoughts on this piece's painted mark, which is on the center board in the interior back, high up at eye level. Thanks!

Best,
Cliff

i think it's just a carpenter's mark to point out a joint.

Thanks! I’m surprised, as the mark is centered in the visible area of the inside back of the chest, and is about five or six inches high. It is on one of the boards that comprise the back, but not sure if near a joint. It looks like it was intended to be noticed by the bride whenever she opened the chest/armoire. Is it possible this character has a second meaning?

Best,
Cliff

連　lián, as verb has the following meanings;
to join, to link, to connect etc.
連　Lián, is also used as surname Lián

With regards,
I.Nagy

Thank you; that is fascinating! I suppose it could simply denote the owners, or perhaps the term has a similar multi-layered meaning as “link” or “join” in English. Certainly those terms would be relevant to the context of a wedding gift/dowry!

Best,
Cliff

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