Chinese Door: Single Panel in Wood Frame

The grain does all the decorating, and it is in no danger of running out of ideas.

This door, a single panel in a wood frame, comes from China and is contemporary work in elm wood. Northern Chinese elm is prized for its bold, open grain, and it has long been a standard timber for doors, cabinets and everyday furniture. Here one wide flat panel is set in a plain rectangular frame, its surface finished in a deep reddish brown so the swirling, wavering grain stands out in relief. A round metal backplate holds a brass ring pull near the right edge. It is 32 inches long, 2 deep and 78 high.

Plain spoken, and it makes the point beautifully.