Antique Furniture - A Guide for Common People's Collections

Author: Xinhong
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2006-06-01
Features: Chinese classical furniture is an important part of Chinese culture, and during its long development process, it has created a splendid and glorious culture. As an outstanding cultural heritage of the Chinese nation, it has evolved into excellent daily utensils that combine scientific, artistic, and practical qualities. Not only are they cherished by the Chinese people, but they also stand out in the world of furniture and enjoy a high reputation. The living and residential habits of ancient people determined the direction of furniture development. During the Wei and Jin dynasties, people were accustomed to sitting on the floor, so furniture was mostly low and short. By the Tang Dynasty, people's lifestyles changed, and they began to sit higher with their feet dangling, which gradually gave rise to Chinese floor-standing furniture. From the Five Dynasties and Ten Kingdoms period to the Song Dynasty, floor-standing furniture gradually took shape and completely replaced floor-sitting furniture, with its craftsmanship becoming relatively mature. By the Ming and Qing dynasties, Chinese furniture reached its peak, with excellent materials and refined craftsmanship, which were unmatched by furniture before the Ming Dynasty. Because classical furniture carries rich historical connotations and hardwood furniture has the characteristic of being "thousand years durable," Chinese Ming and Qing furniture enjoys a high reputation and value in the current art market. For example, in 1996, a large huanghuali screen was auctioned by Christie's in New York for $1 million. It can be believed that more people will join the group of furniture lovers and collectors. The folk antique furniture collections included in this book are presented for readers' appreciation.