Ming Club Chairs
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.
1970s Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Tapestry, Chenille, Cane, Walnut
Mid-20th Century Chinese Ming Club Chairs
Rosewood
Mid-20th Century American Ming Club Chairs
Brass
1970s French Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Rush, Oak
1950s Czech Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Upholstery, Beech
Late 20th Century European Ming Club Chairs
Chrome
2010s Canadian Ming Club Chairs
Hardwood, Walnut
20th Century American Ming Club Chairs
Brass
1970s Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Brass
1980s American Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Cotton, Wood
21st Century and Contemporary Ming Club Chairs
Fabric
1960s North American Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Cane, Walnut
20th Century Dutch Ming Club Chairs
Leather, Pine
1970s American Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Steel
2010s American Ming Club Chairs
Linen
1970s American Vintage Ming Club Chairs
Upholstery, Wood
Mid-20th Century Ming Club Chairs
Hardwood