Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
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.
Early 20th Century Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Brass
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pine
Early 18th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Soapstone
18th Century Asian Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Stone
17th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Terracotta
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Terracotta
19th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Wood
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Terracotta
1920s Thai Vintage Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Wood
16th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pottery
19th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Wood
19th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Brass
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Terracotta
Late 20th Century American Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Brass
Early 20th Century French Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Oak
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pottery
Early 20th Century English Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Brass
15th Century and Earlier Malaysian Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Mahogany
1920s American Vintage Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pine
1980s American Vintage Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Paper
Early 20th Century French Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Metal
Late 20th Century Chinese Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Rosewood
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Ceramic, Stoneware
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pottery
Late 20th Century Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Plastic, Hardwood
Early 17th Century Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Brass, Bronze, Iron
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pottery
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Silver
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Pottery
15th Century and Earlier Chinese Antique Ming Collectibles and Curiosities
Ceramic, Pottery