Ming Models and Miniatures
In what’s considered a golden age of Chinese furniture, Ming dynasty artisans produced expertly made designs that married elegance and function. Ming furniture was versatile, such as tables that doubled as writing desks and dining spaces. But it was also beautiful, enhancing a room with clean lines, soft curves and sophisticated decoration.
Dating from 1368 to 1644, the Ming dynasty was a vibrant time for international trade and culture. Especially for scholars and the wealthy, there was an emphasis on a home’s design to promote a good life. From large wardrobes to angular sofas, Ming-style furniture was defined by its joinery, which, instead of nails, involved meticulously designed interlocking elements of wood. This material was carefully selected and positioned to make the grain part of the design. The slow-growing huanghuali, a yellowish rosewood, was particularly valued for its bright color.
Although ornamentation was minimal, Ming dynasty furniture often featured carved or painted details of flowers, insects, dragons, fruits and other motifs. Chairs crafted for scholars could include calligraphic brush writing. As overseas trade expanded, techniques from the West, like cloisonné enamel painting, adorned table screens and other pieces.
Ming furniture influenced styles abroad such as Queen Anne in England and Hollywood Regency in the United States. The curved shape of Ming armchairs had a profound impact on legendary Scandinavian modernist furniture designer Hans Wegner. The Danish cabinetmaker shared the Ming artisans’ interest in creating streamlined, functional furnishings, and his China chair, Round chair and Wishbone chair are inspired by Ming dynasty seating. Today, the Ming-style horseshoe chair is a graceful and sought-after type of seat, and contemporary Chinese designers such as Jerry Chen and Gan Erke are also drawing on this heritage for a new era of style.
Find a collection of Ming cabinets, decorative objects, lounge chairs and other furniture on 1stDibs.
17th Century Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Terracotta
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Terracotta
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Terracotta
1920s Thai Vintage Ming Models and Miniatures
Wood
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Bronze
Early 20th Century French Ming Models and Miniatures
Oak
18th Century and Earlier Tibetan Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Early 20th Century French Ming Models and Miniatures
Marble
Mid-20th Century Italian Ming Models and Miniatures
Wood
Early 19th Century English Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Mahogany
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Pottery, Stoneware
16th Century Belgian Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Gold
1980s American Vintage Ming Models and Miniatures
Paper
19th Century French Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Mirror, Pine
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Pottery
Late 18th Century English Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Mahogany
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Pottery
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Silver
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Pottery
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Models and Miniatures
Ceramic, Pottery