Antique Chinese Embroidery

Chinese silk embroidery is an art form that involves stitching highly detailed traditional images onto silk fabric by hand. The Chinese name for the art form is xiuhua or zhahua. On 1stDibs, you can shop a selection of Chinese silk embroidery.

Chinese embroidery is done by artisans in accordance with one of the four different kinds of Chinese embroidery, Shu, Su, Yue and Xiang. Each kind of embroidery has a variety of different traditions, styles and stitches. Shop a collection of authentic Chinese embroidery on 1stDibs.

To identify antique Chinese furniture, look carefully at its details. Chinese craftsmen often built furniture using mortise and tenon joinery, eliminating the need for nails and screws. If you see this type of hardware, your piece is likely not at least 100 years old, especially if the hardware still looks new and shiny. Since antique furniture was handmade, you will normally see slight imperfections, such as tool marks or slight variations in carvings. Pieces that appear completely uniform and pristine are less often genuine antiques.

When present, maker's marks can also be helpful. Research the marks to learn more about when the maker was active and producing pieces like yours. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or experienced antique dealer evaluate your furniture for you.

Shop an assortment of antique Chinese furniture.