Ming Lounge 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.
Late 20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Upholstery, Wood
20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Brass
Late 20th Century Unknown Ming Lounge Chairs
Wood, Leather
Late 20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Burl
Mid-20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Brass
Mid-20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Ultrasuede, Walnut, Latex
1970s American Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric, Wood
Mid-20th Century North American Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric, Wood
1980s European Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Leather, Wood
Mid-20th Century Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric, Wicker, Rattan
1970s Italian Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Chrome
Mid-20th Century Unknown Ming Lounge Chairs
Walnut
1940s Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric, Wood
21st Century and Contemporary Unknown Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric
1970s American Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric, Fiberglass
Mid-20th Century Italian Ming Lounge Chairs
Chrome
Late 20th Century Ming Lounge Chairs
Fabric, Wicker, Rattan
20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Brass
1960s Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Upholstery, Walnut
1970s American Vintage Ming Lounge Chairs
Silk, Mahogany, Cotton
20th Century Chinese Ming Lounge Chairs
Elm
20th Century American Ming Lounge Chairs
Rattan, Fabric, Bamboo, Cane
20th Century Chinese Ming Lounge Chairs
Elm
21st Century and Contemporary French Ming Lounge Chairs
Rattan
21st Century and Contemporary French Ming Lounge Chairs
Cane, Rattan