Help identifying a cabinet (black lacquer)

Morning!

I picked up this cabinet at a recent estate sale. I love everything about it - size, shape and colors. I intent to restore it and was wondering if you can guide me to a reputable DIY source? I already ordered a glass top for it.

Also, I would love to know the age of the cabinet, its origin (Chinese or Japanese), any symbolism behind the stone pieces used in the design, and/or the theme.

Thak you so much for your expertise!

 

It is Chinese, second half of the 20th century, probably 1980-ish.

It is popular Chinese theme, often called 'Beauties in a Walled Garden' or similar. It is meant to evoke a mood of beauty to please the eye and mind. Which it does.

 

It sure does. I love it! Thank you

After some more research I now think that the carvings are made of soapstone.

 

They could be, although I have also seen them from that period with plain old plastic.