Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Like chinoiserie, which had emerged in Europe in the 17th century, antique Chinese Chippendale furniture was an appropriation of Asian design that often distilled it to stereotypes.
Thomas Chippendale published The Gentleman and Cabinet-Maker’s Director in 1754, and the widespread popularity of the book of furniture designs influenced a new style of furniture named for the English cabinetmaker. Artisans in England, the United States and Europe adapted the work illustrated in its pages. The publication of the pattern book included designs reflecting “Gothic, Chinese and Modern Taste,” with illustrations of “Chinese” chairs and cabinets featuring elaborate hand-carved latticework.
Pagoda-shaped flourishes and wood painted in the “japanned” finish that mimicked lacquer were common on these pieces, as were fretwork patterns on chair backs. The back of a chair is the easiest way to distinguish between Gothic, Rococo and Chinese Chippendale chairs, all of which typically feature broad seats and luxurious upholstery. Chippendale’s designs for “Chinese” chairs tend to favor more clean lines and less ornamentation than the other styles, with cutouts in the rails and the fretwork on the back evoking a European ideal of East Asian design.
Dark woods such as walnut and solid mahogany were commonly used, as were bamboo turnings. Cabinets for imported Chinese ceramics frequently were adorned with glazing bars, while small tea tables were detailed with angular fretwork. The style remained popular through the 18th century and into the decades that followed, even inspiring an entire room at Buckingham Palace.
Find antique Chinese Chippendale dining room chairs, side tables, case pieces and other furniture and decor on 1stDibs.
20th Century Chinese Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Bamboo, Wicker, Wood
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Hardwood, Lacquer
Mid-19th Century Chinese Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Bamboo
20th Century Swedish Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Pine
19th Century Swedish Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Pine, Paint
1920s French Vintage Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Marble, Bronze
Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Pine
19th Century Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Wood
21st Century and Contemporary Asian Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Wood
Early 19th Century German Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Cherry
1860s French Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Pine
Mid-19th Century Swedish Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Pine
Early 19th Century Swedish Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Wood, Paint
19th Century Swedish Antique Chinese Chippendale Demi-lune Tables
Wood