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 Kroehler furniture?1 Answer
- How do I identify Craftsman furniture?1 Answer
Shop for Chinese Furniture on 1stDibs
18thC Chinese Export Blue and White Jar Porcelain Hand Painted Scene, Qing
Located in Lincoln, Lincolnshire
This is a heavy Chinese Export porcelain jar hand painted with a blue and white lakeside scene and dating to the late 18th century, Qing dynasty.
This is a well potted piece with a ...
Category
Antique Late 18th Century Chinese Chinese Export Ceramics
Materials
Porcelain
Antique PAIR Chinese Bronze Foo Dogs fine detail gilded & enamelled, Qing 19th C
Located in Lincoln, Lincolnshire
These are an excellent matching pair of large antique Chinese Foo or lion dog sculptures, sometimes called temple lions or Shishi, made of bronze with fine detail, originally hand enameled and gilded dating to the 19th century, Qing period or earlier.
These are a very beautiful matching pair of large Bronze Chinese...
Category
Antique 19th Century Chinese Qing Metalwork
Materials
Bronze
The Verdant Court of Virtue: A Chinese Aubusson Masterpiece of Flemish Grandeur
Located in Dallas, TX
79487 Vintage Chinese Aubusson Tapestry, 05'08 x 05'01. This handwoven wool vintage Chinese Aubusson tapestry is a lush homage to the legendary Flemish Feuilles de Choux verdure trad...
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Aubusson Western European Rugs
Materials
Wool
Summer Houses
Located in New York, NY
Explore fifty extraordinary architect-designed homes that capture the spirit of summer
Summer Houses extends an exclusive invitation to the world’s most stunning residential retreats. From mountain-top cabins and private island escapes to seaside sanctuaries and luxury beach bungalows, these remarkable homes celebrate mindful design, elemental materials, and the beauty of living in nature.
Spanning 240 pages, this gorgeous global survey showcases work by the biggest names in contemporary architecture. Beautiful, large-scale interior and exterior photographs bring each project to life, revealing how open-air spaces, natural materials, and connections to the surrounding landscape can help evoke the feeling of summer year-round.
With a design that reflects the essence of summer – light, water, lush foliage, and vibrant color – Summer Houses celebrates long days, outdoor living, and the carefree pleasures of our sunniest season.
Featured architects include: Manuel Aires Mateus, Studio Arthur Casas, Tom Dixon, Steven Harris Architects, Adrian James Architects, Olson Kundig, LEVER Architecture, Studio mk27, NADAAA, Norm Architects, Atelier du Pont, Rees Roberts...
Category
2010s Chinese Books
Materials
Paper
$60 / item
Chinese Folding Table Screen
Located in Charlottesville, VA
A folding tabletop screen formed of multiple narrow hinged panels arranged in a continuous sequence. Each panel is decorated with painted figural, bird, and floral scenes set against...
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Lacquer
Materials
Wood, Paint
$14,001,320
Antique Chinese Export Canton Blue Willow Gilt Plate Platter Tray 8"
Located in Dayton, OH
Small late 19th century Chinese Export porcelain platter / plate - rectangular in shape with rounded corners and gilt detail at the edge, decorated with a Blue Willow style lands and...
Category
Antique 19th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Platters and Serveware
Materials
Porcelain
