Expanded trade between Europe and East Asia, starting in the 16th century, led to a booming market for exported goods, particularly furniture. This was bolstered by the establishment of the Dutch and English East India Companies at the beginning of the 17th century. From folding screens and chairs to lacquer tables and silver, Chinese Export furniture was in demand and regularly copied and imitated, leading to styles like chinoiserie and Chinese Chippendale.
The expansion of exporting that had strengthened the arts during the Ming dynasty continued into the Qing dynasty era — Chinese designers made many furniture pieces specifically for export, resulting in distinctive designs that mixed traditional techniques with forms appealing to foreign buyers. For instance, cabinetmakers in Canton (modern-day Guangzhou) were prolific in crafting hardwood furniture for export in European styles that involved the expert joinery techniques of Chinese furniture. Designs for Chinese Export porcelain, cabinets, decorative objects and other furniture were often more ornately adorned than they would be for a local audience, such as with mother-of-pearl overlays or surfaces featuring lavish pictorial scenes or gold on black motifs. Some were even commissioned by wealthy European families to be adorned with their coat of arms.
Because lacquer furniture was especially prized, and the resin used to create it was difficult to import as it would harden during the long voyage, artisans in China and Japan exported numerous lacquer pieces. Long before lacquer made its way to Japan, the Chinese treated the material differently. They used it to create smooth, glossy surfaces, but also for carving, an art that began in the 12th century and is exclusively Chinese. These pieces are called cinnabar lacquer after the powdered mercury sulfide (cinnabar) employed to produce their characteristic red hue. A popular form for export was a compact cabinet with drawers, usually displayed on a small table. Undecorated furniture built in Europe was also shipped to China to be lacquered. The international exchange of design would influence furniture into the 19th century and later, informing styles such as Art Deco and Art Nouveau.
Find a collection of antique Chinese Export tables, beds, cupboards, table lamps and more furniture on 1stDibs.
$1,982Sale Price / set|20% Off
Tall Pair of Vintage Bird Embroideries, Oriental, Framed, Wildlife Art, C.1980
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a tall pair of vintage bird embroideries. An Oriental, silk cotton wildlife scene, dating to the late 20th century, circa 1980. Striking colour and appealing Oriental taste,...
Cotton, Glass
Pair of Mid Century Framed Chinese Silk Embroidered Panels
Located in New York, NY
Pair of Chinese silk embroidered gold silk panels with floral and bird motifs. Woven silk borders frame the panels within the black painted wood frames.
Silk, Glass, Wood
Fine Quality Embroidery on Silk - Qing Dynasty, China, Mid 19th Century
Located in Chatham, ON
Antique fine quality - Qing Dynasty - forbidden or seed stitch silk embroidery panel - metallic and silk threads - densely packed embroidery on a light weight damask pattern silk - m...
Silk
Exhibited Framed Fine Chinese Embroidery Silk Panel Qing Dynasty
Located in Atlanta, GA
A very fine embroidered silk panel in giltwood frame originally from the Annette Martin Collection and exhibited at the Chinese Culture Foundation of San Francisco February 8th - Mar...
Silk, Giltwood
Antique Chinese Embroidery Textile 8" x 8"
Located in New York, NY
Antique Chinese Embroidery, Origin: China, Circa: Late 19th Century
Silk
Art Deco Chinese Handmade Silk Bautou Tapestry Rug, Early 20th Century
Located in Grythyttan, SE
This exquisite dense and hand-knotted Baotou (sometimes spelled Paotou or Paotow) rug features a deep blue background adorned with a polychrome design, showcasing three lotus flowers...
Cotton, Silk
Framed Antique Chinese Embroidery Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Chinese antique embroidery presented in a museum quality frame, originally purchased from Galerie Du Monde in Hongkong. Originally, the te...
Linen, Silk, Wood
Beautiful and Fine Antique Chinese Textile 3'2" x 3'7"
Located in New York, NY
Finely Woven Antique Chinese Textile, Country of Origin: China, Circa Date: Late 19th Century
Silk
Two Framed Chinese Antique Textile Fragments Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A group of two antique textile fragments from China, circa 19th century Qing dynasty, professionally preserved and displayed in giltwood frame...
Silk, Wood
Framed Chinese Embroidery Panel of Longevity Deities
Located in Atlanta, GA
A large Chinese embroidery work of art presented in a carved gilt frame with and silver borders, circa late Qing Dynasty 19th century. The imp...
Silk, Wood
Framed Chinese Embroidery Southern Bridal Jacket
Located in Atlanta, GA
A framed vintage Chinese embroidered bridal jacket called "Gua", which is the upper part of the two-piece wedding assemble called "Qun Gua", with the low...
Silk, Glass, Wood
Framed Antique Two-Piece Chinese Embroidery Winter Jacket Ensemble
Located in Atlanta, GA
This two-piece set of Chinese antique winter coat and a neck warmer ensemble circa 19th century (late Qing dynasty) is presented in two matching giltwood shadow boxes. Tailored in light auberge silk with thick padding, the attire was reserved for cold winter weather, which was common in Northern China. The surface is masterfully adorned with embroidery of silver threads. Although the color pallet was nearly minimalistic compared to many other colorful embroidery work at the time, the contrast of silver on auberge background is visually stunning and exudes a noble air of elegance. Floral and foliage motifs are showcased in neat arrangement across the coat and ocean waves and coral rocks...
Giltwood, Silk
Framed Antique Embroidered Purse Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A beautiful antique embroidered purse from China, circa 19th century Qing dynasty, artistically displayed in a giltwood shadow box frame with...
Linen, Silk, Giltwood
Framed Antique Chinese Embroidery Panel Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
An antique Chinese embroidery panel, originally the sleeve band of a robe from Qing Dynasty, circa 19th century. Nicely presented as a...
Silk, Wood
Framed Antique Chinese Embroidery Textile Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A piece of beautiful antique textile fragments from China, circa 19th century Qing dynasty, artistically displayed in a giltwood frame with contrasting teal blue color cloth matts. O...
Silk, Giltwood
Framed Antique Chinese Textile Groups Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A group of three antique Chinese textiles, arranged and professionally matted and framed. The museum quality display includes two similar pouches symmetrically flanking a fan case...
Silk, Wood
Framed Chinese Antique Brocade Dragon Panel
Located in Atlanta, GA
Antique Chinese brocade dragon panel from Imperial Qing Dynasty circa 19th century, beautifully presented with a linen mat and in a silvered wo...
Brocade, Silk, Wood
Framed Antique Embroidery Chinese Textile Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A piece of beautiful antique textile fragments from China, circa 19th century Qing dynasty, artistically displayed in a giltwood frame with co...
Silk, Giltwood
Set of Three-Framed Antique Chinese Textiles Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A set of three antique textile fragments from China, circa 19th century Qing dynasty, professionally displayed in matching giltwood frames as a triptych. Originally they were embroidered panels from semi-formal skirt...
Silk, Giltwood
Framed Antique Embroidery Chinese Textile Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A piece wonderful antique textile fragment from China, circa 19th century Qing dynasty, artistically displayed in a giltwood frame with white ...
Silk, Giltwood
Framed Chinese Antique Textile Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
A spectacular antique Chinese embroidery panel dated from Qing dynasty (circa 19th century), professionally framed with linen mat, pur...
Silk, Wood
$1,500
H 90 in W 10.5 in D 0.25 in
18th Century Hand-Embroidered Silk Textile Panel, Gilt Threads, Europe
Located in Barrington, IL
Discover a rare and exquisite piece of European artistry with this Exceptional 18th Century Hand-Embroidered Silk and Gilt Thread Textile Panel. This magnificent piece was artistically crafted by repurposing fragments of what was once a grand hand-embroidered robe or a sacred vestment shawl, giving it a unique history and renewed purpose as a stunning decorative panel. Created in the 18th century, this textile marvel, even after three centuries, retains its remarkable beauty. The beautiful and brilliant colors of the silk threads endure, showcasing the enduring quality of 18th-century dyes and embroidery. The delicate gilt threads woven throughout the design continue to shine exquisitely under the right light, adding a luminous and regal dimension to the piece. Display it as a magnificent tapestry wall art to celebrate its intricate details and historical narrative, or utilize it as a luxurious table runner to imbue your dining or console space with unparalleled elegance and historical charm. Dimensions: 10.5" x 90" Date of Manufacture: Early 1700s Place of Origin: Europe Material: Silk embroidery with gilt threads Condition: Wear consistent with age and use The Persian Knot Gallery, SKU: 1374 Vintage Handwoven Tapestries, French Aubusson Tapestry, Aubusson Tapestry Pillows, French Tapestry Pillows, Antique Rug Pillows, European Embroidery,18th Century Antique French Tapestry...
Gold
$80Sale Price|20% Off
H 14 in W 17 in D 1 in
1940s Chinese Vintage Silk Embroidery of Framed Phoenix Birds
Located in Boca Raton, FL
Chinese vintage embroidery silk on silk of phoenix birds on a brunch with signed inscription, in a bamboo like profiled frame.
Silk
$23,500
W 39 in L 90 in
1850s Blue Scene Pictorial Qing Chinese Silk Kesi Textile 3'3" x 7'6" Carpet Rug
Located in New York, NY
Mid 19th Century Chinese Silk Kesi Textile ( 3'3" x 7'6" - 99 x 229 ) Antique Chinese – Textile Medallion Flat Weave Rug, Country of Origin: China, Circa Date: 1850s. This extraordi...
Silk
Beautiful Vintage Asian Dragon Embroidery
Located in Saint Ouen, FR
Nice embroidery panel with dragon design entirely hand embroidered with silk on silk Dragon designs are on relief.
Silk
Bobyrug’s Beautiful Vintage Chinese Art Deco Little Rug
Located in Saint Ouen, FR
Exquisite Beijing Chinese rug adorned with a captivating design and vibrant colors. Meticulously hand-knotted with wool velvet on a cotton foundation. The intricate pattern, featurin...
Wool
Framed Antique Chinese Embroidery Panel Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
An antique Chinese embroidery panel, originally the sleeve band of a robe from Qing Dynasty, circa 19th century. Nicely presented as a...
Silk, Wood
Framed Antique Japanese Silk Embroidery Fukusa Textile Panel
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Japanese Fukusa Panel with tassels displayed in a gilt frame circa Meiji Period. Fukusa is a traditional Japanese textile art used as a...
Silk, Wood
$595
H 21.5 in W 25.5 in D 1 in
Vintage Japanese Framed Silk Embroidery Tapestry of Red Mount Fuji at Dawn Dusk
Located in Studio City, CA
A beautiful, hand stitched Japanese silk embroidery/tapestry featuring a glowing red Mount Fuji (in the early morning dawn light or later dusk) rising above the undulating ocean like...
Silk, Wood
$2,700
H 0.25 in W 36 in D 36 in
1920s Red Foo Dogs Antique Chinese Silk Embroidery 3' x 3' Wool Woven Carpet Rug
Located in New York, NY
Early 20th Century Chinese Silk Embroidery ( 3' x 3' x 92 x 92 ) Antique Textile Small Scatter Size Wool Red Rug, Circa Date: 1925. This exceptional piece, though titled as a wool r...
Silk
Tapestry of the 20th Century - N° 766
By Royal Manufacture of Aubusson
Located in Paris, FR
Modern tapestry of the 20th century in perfect condition of conservation. Negotiable price and free delivery. Dimension: 150 cm x 78 cm.
Wool
$3,250
H 42.5 in W 40 in D 1.5 in
Antique Early 20th Century Japanese Hand Stitched Silk Framed Tapestry
Located in Lambertville, NJ
All hand work framed silk Japanese tapestry with embroidered boarder. A deep custom black lacquered frame. Originaly sold from Newman Galleries....
Silk, Glass, Lacquer
Framed 19th Century Antique Chinese Silk Embroidery Panel
Located in Delray Beach, FL
A spectacular antique Chinese embroidery panel dated from (circa 19th century), professionally framed with linen mat, purchased from A...
Bamboo, Silk
Sold
H 23.82 in W 10.24 in D 0.79 in
Vintage Embroidered Wall Display Panel, Chinese, Silk Cotton, Art Deco, C.1930
Located in Hele, Devon, GB
This is a striking vintage Art Deco period embroidered panel, showcasing exquisite Chinese craftsmanship, circa 1930. This decorative silk cotton wall piece offers delicate detailing...
Cotton, Glass
Colorful Antique Floral Chinese Embroidery 2' x 5'
Located in New York, NY
Colorful Antique Floral Chinese Embroidery, Country of Origin: China, Circa date: 1900
Silk
Large Chinese Silk Embroidery, Framed
Located in Bradenton, FL
This tall Chinese silk embroidery depicts Asian figures and scenes of boats, bridges and Asian landscapes. Features red, green, salmon and whit...
Silk
Mid-20th Century Chinese Hand Made Silk Tapestry, Eight Immortals
Located in Pomona, CA
Rare find vintage Chinese fine silk tapestry of Eight Immortals. It is 100 percent hand made with fine silk of Chinese famous folklore of the legendary of eight Immortals crossing the sea. Eight Immortals using their own magic power to crossing the sea without ship. It is well known in Chinese cultural. From the pictures, you can see it is in very good vintage condition with detailed hand-woven skills Size: 54in H x 98in L Origin: China Circa: mid-20th century Material: Silk Condition: Very good vintage condition, hand woven, normal age wear. Disclaimer: Due to differences in monitor/screen settings, product colors may differ slightly between product photos and the physical product. P.S. The wood stick hanger on the top is NOT included. You may get it at Home Depot
Silk
Asian Framed Embroidery with Landscape, Early 20th Century
Located in VÉZELAY, FR
Beautiful handmade silk embroidery, framed under glass. We see a landscape where a lake or a navigable river is represented, bordered by houses, forests and mountains. Asia, old In...
Fabric, Silk, Glass, Wood
Tibetan Painted Thangka on Cloth with Red Dakini
Located in Astoria, NY
Antique Tibetan thangka hand-painted on cloth with Guan Yin, bodhisattvas, deities, and the red Dakini Kurukulla all atop lotuses amongst clouds, housed in ...
Grasscloth, Paint
Framed Chinese Antique Silk Embroidery Panel
Located in Atlanta, GA
A Chinese silk panel with elaborate embroidery circa late 19th century, end of Qing Dynasty. On the salmon pink background, the image depicts a pair of phoenixes perched on rocks sur...
Textile, Wood
Frame Antique Chinese Embroidered Robe Qing Dynasty
Located in Atlanta, GA
A woman's coat made of blue woven brocade with wide sleeves from China late Qing Dynasty (circa mid to late 19th century), professionally mounted and presented on blue linen board an...
Brocade, Silk, Giltwood
Framed Chinese Antique Silk Embroidery Cushion Cover with Beads
Located in Atlanta, GA
A wonderful piece of embroidery art from China circa 19th century beautifully presented in a shadow box frame that accentuate its aesthetic. The square form cushion cover features superb needlework such as satin stitches and forbidden knots that depicts a boy and a girl riding Qilin or Kirin, a Chinese mythological chimerical animal with elements of dragon, horse and lion, and with one unicorn-like horn. Besides being a symbol of luck, prosperity, success and longevity in Chinese culture, it is also a symbol of fertility, being the bearer with the gift of more offspring. The image of a boy and a girl riding Qilin indicates this aspect of symbolism and suggests that it may have a specific place in the household. The entourage in the center are surrounded by other prosperous symbols such as peonies, ribbons coins and flying bats. The embroidery was done with a more somber color palette of blue, white and black in contrast with the yellow background. Surrounding the center square is an inner band of appliqued bronze...
Silk, Wood
Framed Chinese Antique Embroidery Panel
Located in Atlanta, GA
A gorgeous Chinese silk embroidery panel circa 19th century late Qing dynasty beautifully displayed in giltwood frames with mirror border...
Silk, Mirror, Giltwood
Pair of Framed Chinese Antique Embroidery Panels
Located in Atlanta, GA
A pair of gorgeous Chinese silk embroidery panels circa 19th century late Qing Dynasty beautifully displayed in giltwood frames with mirr...
Silk, Mirror, Giltwood
Framed Antique Chinese Embroidery Panel Qing Dynasty Provenance
Located in Atlanta, GA
An antique Chinese embroidery panel, originally the sleeve band of a Manchurian robe of Qing Dynasty, circa 19th century. Nicely prese...
Silk, Wood