Featured Unusual Chinese camphor chest

Hi all,chinese camphor chests are fairly common and I see them every now and then in second furniture shops
(I would think many of us do) But this one is most unusual and personally I have never seen one like it. It’s like a semi bench chest. Because it so unusual I have made the decision to go back to the shop to buy. Doesn’t look very old,I would think 20th century. What do you all think of it? Have you seen one like this before? Thanks for any comments

 

No, I haven't, only the regular ones.
This one looks a bit older than most, maybe first half of the 20th century.

 

My advice, only buy it if you really want it for yourself. There is hardly any interest in the regular ones nowadays, probably the same for this one.

 

Many thanks AJ for your valued opinion. It has a bit of an odd look to me like someone couldn’t make their mind up

 

I hear you. Good advice. Thinking I can also negotiate a bit or maybe do little bundle deal (as there’s something else that Iam also interested in)

 

Maybe it was a bespoke piece.

Good idea.

 

I've not seen one like it either. If buying for yourself, go for it. Where will you find another?

 

at 1st glance...I thought it was a wood pinball machine.......

so...I have no real good advice here...

.

 

Very true. Thanks for the reply

 

A valid comment in it’s own right. Also looks a bit like a big decorated wooden toilet But at least it’s interesting

 

My first reaction was pinball machine too. If a Chinese Art person and a video game geek had a baby, it would look like this chest!

 

That is quite a description!!

 

The fine blurry grey line between ugly and unique.. !

 

Nicer, deeper carving than some. Does it open in more than one place? Semi confusing layout when seen in photos. Is it even camphor wood? Camphor wood has a distinct smell right? Does it smell right?

 

Only opens in one place. Yes,it had a very distinct smell when I lifted the lid. Thanks for the reply