Ming Furniture
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.
1980s Chinese Vintage Ming Furniture
Wood
1980s American Vintage Ming Furniture
Wood, Paint
1980s Thai Vintage Ming Furniture
Gold, Enamel
1980s American Vintage Ming Furniture
Wood
19th Century Italian Antique Ming Furniture
Walnut
Mid-20th Century German Ming Furniture
Porcelain
Mid-20th Century American Ming Furniture
Brass
20th Century Chinese Ming Furniture
1950s Chinese Vintage Ming Furniture
Wood
Late 20th Century American Ming Furniture
Brass
1950s American Vintage Ming Furniture
Nickel
21st Century and Contemporary Ming Furniture
Nickel
21st Century and Contemporary Finnish Ming Furniture
Porcelain
Early 20th Century Chinese Ming Furniture
Mahogany
1970s French Vintage Ming Furniture
Travertine, Brass
Mid-20th Century Chinese Ming Furniture
Porcelain, Paint
1980s Vintage Ming Furniture
Glass, Wood, Burl
1980s Vintage Ming Furniture
Wood
1980s North American Vintage Ming Furniture
Brass
1980s Vintage Ming Furniture
Mahogany, Burl
1980s Vintage Ming Furniture
Glass, Mahogany, Burl
1980s Vintage Ming Furniture
Mahogany
1980s Vintage Ming Furniture
Upholstery, Rattan, Mahogany, Burl
1980s Chinese Vintage Ming Furniture
Rosewood