Classic Chinese furnishings are today enjoying unrivaled interest, both in Asia and the West. Quality Asian antiques are a smart investment that can be enjoyed for years to come. Though remaining eminently functional Chinese furnishings are essentially a work of art; a testament both to the natural beauty of wood grain and the understated elegance that can be achieved through contours and ornamentation – a marriage of design, elegance and simplicity with detail. Most of the Chinese furnishings offered for sale today are from the Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) through the Republic Period (1911-1949).

Furniture became a true art form of great purity during the Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) and wonderful examples of classic lines and understated elegance from this period remain with us today. Antique Ming Dynasty furniture is now a rarity and much prized by collectors and museums alike. The end of the Ming Dynasty ushered in a new era - the look of opulence. During this period due to the expansion of the economy and culture, people were able to afford more furnishings and wealth was denoted by extravagant carvings and paintings. Skilled craftsmen became highly regarded and their individual personalities became apparent in their work. It took 10 years for an apprentice to rise to the level of master craftsman, and those that attained this level have left with us with some truly outstanding works of art. Furniture however was not always a necessity for the Chinese people as they knelt or sat cross-legged on woven mats or slept on bedding on the floor surrounded by sparse furnishings. However Western cultural influence gradually changed the practice of sitting and sleeping on the floor to the elevated custom of sitting and sleeping as is the habit today.

Traditionally Chinese furniture has been made with tongue and groove or mortise and tenon construction which combined with the right skills makes the finished product stronger and more durable – even today nails or pins in quality items are rarely used. Moreover, the mortise and tenon construction also proved to be a convenience to Chinese families when they moved as the furniture was easily broken down into pieces and put on a wagon for transportation to a new location.

All of our products are carefully hand selected by our seasoned buyer and lovingly restored under his watchful eye. You will be enthralled by our dedication to the selection of fine quality products – thousands of treasures await the discriminating client!

Contact us toll free at 1-866-743-0800 or by e-mail at info@AsianAntiquesLtd.com
Showroom Hours Wed, Fri, Sat 10-5 and Thurs 10-6. Closed Sun-Tue

A 10% freight allowance will be given on any combined purchase
over $250.00 that is purchased and shipped through our web site

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