Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
How do you identify antique Chinese furniture?
1 Answer
To identify antique Chinese furniture, look carefully at its details. Chinese craftsmen often built furniture using mortise and tenon joinery, eliminating the need for nails and screws. If you see this type of hardware, your piece is likely not at least 100 years old, especially if the hardware still looks new and shiny. Since antique furniture was handmade, you will normally see slight imperfections, such as tool marks or slight variations in carvings. Pieces that appear completely uniform and pristine are less often genuine antiques.
When present, maker's marks can also be helpful. Research the marks to learn more about when the maker was active and producing pieces like yours. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your furniture for you.
Shop an assortment of antique Chinese furniture.
When present, maker's marks can also be helpful. Research the marks to learn more about when the maker was active and producing pieces like yours. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your furniture for you.
Shop an assortment of antique Chinese furniture.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
Related Questions
- How do I identify my antique furniture?1 Answer
- How do I identify my furniture?2 Answers
- How do you identify Chinese silver?1 Answer
- How do I identify Hekman furniture?1 Answer
- How do you identify Colonial furniture?1 Answer
Shop for Chinese Furniture on 1stDibs
Mid-Century Pagoda Form Rattan / Bamboo And Grasscloth Cabinet / Etagere
Located in Kennesaw, GA
This is a rattan pagoda form rattan cabinet. It has two doors that open to shelving. The body is 26.5”L. This piece is unmarked and in very good condition.
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Cabinets
Materials
Grasscloth, Rattan
Chinese Double Sided Carved Opera Troupe Prop Sign Calligraphy Panels 45"
Located in Dayton, OH
Pair of vintage mid to early 20th century hardwood opera troupe prop signage hanging panels, carved on both sides with gilded calligraphy; gold edges / frame.
Translation:
Left pane...
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Decorative Art
Materials
Hardwood
Antique Pair Blue and White Porcelain Ormolu Bronze Table Lamps Chinese European
Located in Dublin, Ireland
Stunning Pair Traditional Bulbous Form Art Deco Period Blue and White Ribbed Porcelain Vases of generous proportions, now converted to a pair of electric Table Lamps, possibly of Chi...
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Vases
Materials
Ormolu
Pair Chinese Blue Foo Lion Dogs, circa Late 19th Century
Located in New York, NY
A pair of Chinese porcelain blue foo lion dogs decorative objects with a dark turquoise blue glaze, circa late 19th to early-20th century, China. Pair are a nice size, not too big or...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century Chinese Ceramics
Materials
Ceramic, Porcelain
Art Deco Chinese Carpet
Located in Portland, OR
Deep red Chinese art deco Nichols-style area rug in wool. Floral motif. Good vintage condition free of holes or any major staining. Some areas of wear are visible and along edges the...
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Art Deco Chinese and East Asian Rugs
Materials
Wool
$2,660
Pair of Large Vintage Chinese Blue and White Foo Dog Temple Ginger Jars
Located in Pearland, TX
A lovely vintage pair of Chinese Kangxi style handmade porcelain lidded temple jars or ginger jars with foo dog finials. These stunning jars are a nice large size with hand painted f...
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Jars
Materials
Earthenware
