This style of table or desk, with a carved shelf or footrest at the bottom, appeared during the Chinese Qing dynasty and is similar in style to many modern-day console tables. The shelf on the version replicates their own Ming Carved Screen, a design dating from the Ming Dynasty and made up of individually carved pieces of wood which are then joined together. Together with the circular brass hardware, this gives it an unmistakable oriental feel. The table has two drawers and a rattan panel inlaid into the top, making it more hard-wearing for use either as a desk or a display table.