• A square, weathered wooden bucket crafted from elm with a curved handle and adorned with carved Asian characters and face motifs on its sides—this is the Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure, likely from Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, offered by Pearl City Antiques. Set against a white background, its timeworn surface speaks to generations of use as a traditional Chinese dou rice measure, capturing the utilitarian elegance of its era.
  • An Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure, likely from Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, by Pearl City Antiques rests on a white marble surface against a plain light background. The rustic, rectangular vessel features black decorative markings and a sturdy handle across the top, reminiscent of traditional Chinese containers once used for storing and measuring rice.
  • An Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure from Pearly City Antiques, likely Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, with carved side designs and a sturdy handle evocative of its historic function, sits atop a white marble-topped table against a plain white backdrop.
  • An Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure, probably from Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, by Pearl City Antiques—its weathered square wooden form adorned with black painted symbols and a sturdy handle—rests atop a marble-topped table with dark wooden legs, set against a plain light-colored wall.
  • An Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure, likely from Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, by Pearl City Antiques, features a square form with four interior sections and displays weathered brown and black tones along with Chinese characters on one side. The vintage box is shown resting atop a dark wooden table with a white marble top.
  • An Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure, likely from Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, from Pearl City Antiques—featuring a square open form with a central divider and weathered black and orange paint—rests atop a white marble-topped table with a dark wooden base. The setting includes a light gray wall and wood floor in the background.
  • A close-up of the Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure, probably from Shanxi and dating to the mid-19th century, by Pearl City Antiques, showcasing its rustic wooden construction with dark metal accents and carved designs, reminiscent of an authentic antique grain measure, held at an angle above a marble-topped table on a wooden floor.
  • A paper labeled “Certificate of Antiquity” featuring a bowl image is taped inside a worn, brown and black box. The certificate, provided in both English and Chinese, details the artifact’s origin and authenticity, confirming it as an Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure from Shanxi dating to the mid-19th century. This piece is offered by Pearl City Antiques.
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Pearl City Antiques

Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure probably Shanxi c. Mid 19th Century

Antique Chinese Elm Dou Rice Measure probably Shanxi c. Mid 19th Century

Carefully selected for its quality, character, and lasting appeal.

$465.00 USD
$0.00 USD $465.00 USD
Sale Sold out
Delivery quoted personally before purchase.

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Details at a Glance

Date
c. Mid 19th Century
Origin
China; probably Shanxi
Material
Elm
Dimensions
11h x 16w x 16d inches
Condition
Traditionally used in markets and granaries to measure grain, dou measures were often made of elm for its durability and resistance to splitting. Its surface shows deep, honest wear from decades of handling, with a rich, darkened patina that collectors prize. The piece is in nice antique condition, with wear, surface loss, and irregularities consistent with age and prolonged use.
Delivery
Personally arranged; quote before purchase. Westfield, MA pickup available.

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This authentic Chinese dou rice measure is a wonderful survival of everyday life in 19th century China, when standardized wooden vessels like this were essential tools of commerce. Traditionally used in markets and granaries to measure grain, dou measures were often made of elm for its durability and resistance to splitting. The subtly flared form and reinforced rim speak to its utilitarian purpose, while the bold, time-softened surface gives it undeniable visual presence.

The exterior bears carved Chinese characters, likely indicating capacity, ownership, or regional designation, adding both decorative and historical interest. Its surface shows deep, honest wear from decades of handling, with a rich, darkened patina that collectors prize. The interior handle, formed from a single curved element, reflects the practical ingenuity of vernacular Chinese woodworking and provides a strong focal point when displayed.

The piece is in nice antique condition, with wear, surface loss, and irregularities consistent with age and prolonged use. Structurally sound, it displays beautifully as a sculptural object, planter, or accent piece, and works equally well in traditional, Asian-inspired, or modern rustic interiors. Genuine utilitarian examples like this are increasingly difficult to find, especially with such strong character and intact form. 11h x 16w x 16d


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