The Ming (1368-1644) and Qing (1644-1911) dynasties were ages of expansion and great prosperity in Chinese history. The vogue during this period went beyond a rich and decent life. Luxury and novelty became fashionable. The most sought-after furniture made of the choicest timber, was as precious as gold.

Ming furniture is treasured for its comfortable design, simplicity and elegance, while Qing furniture impresses people with its grandeur and pageantry. Though different in style, Ming and Qing furniture represents the zenith of classical Chinese furniture making because of the use of hardwood material and superb craftsmanship.

A Wide Variety

Ming and Qing furniture is finely designed and boasts harmonious proportion with its settings. It’s a combination of all these things: elegance and simplicity, harmony and utility. Take a reclining chair for example. It’s convenient, whether for sitting up or lying down; it also makes a good ornament in a living room.

Ming and Qing furniture has a wide variety of items, mainly including chairs, tables, beds, cabinets, and screen panels.

Chairs

Sitting on the floor was common in China well into the 10th century. In the Ming dynasty chairs became an increasingly common furniture item. Curving chairs, folding chairs, and the throne are among the best known of Ming and Qing chairs.

Curving Chairs

This chair is not only designed to please the eye, but also to increase comfort. Made to support the elbows as well as the upper arms, the elegant curving arms and backrest are by no means inconvenient.

Folding Chairs

This type of chair has a pair of hinged legs that take on an "x" shape when unfolded. Foldable and easy to carry, it was usually taken outside for nobles and aristocrats to rest on when they went outing and hunting.

The Throne

A stately large chair exuding sense of austerity and authority was a must-have furniture item in the living room of the wealthy and the noble in the Ming and Qing dynasties. The majestic throne in the Hall of Supreme Harmony in the Forbidden City was good evidence of this practice. The regal supremeness permeated all over the hall when the emperors were sitting high on the throne and presiding over routine meetings with officials. In imperial China, the dragon was the most auspicious symbol of all, representing wisdom, strength and goodness, and it was often seen carved in the throne. Therefore, the throne was also called the ‘Dragon Chair.’