Wood Rice Chest, South Korea

The front panel shows a flame figure in the grain so bold that it looks painted on.

This rice chest comes from South Korea and dates to the 19th century. It is elm wood. Korean households traditionally kept rice and other grains in sturdy wooden chests, and elm was favored for its strength and lively figure. The case is a simple frame with a single large panel at the front, its grain sweeping in wide arcs. An iron lock plate sits below the top, and a removable board carries an octagonal pull. Short legs raise it off the floor. It is 31.5 inches long, 21.5 deep and 27 high.

Plain enough for grain, handsome enough for the front room.