Ming Dry Bars
MING STYLE
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.
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Style: Ming
Century Furniture Asian Ming Style Tall Red Lacquer Lighted Dry Bar Cabinet
Located in West Chester, PA
A rare Ming style tall lighted bar cabinet by Century Furniture of Distinction.
Upper bifold doors open to reveal a mirrored back with three a...
Category
Late 20th Century American Ming Dry Bars
Materials
Glass, Mirror, Wood
1970s Vintage Broyhill Ming Dynasty Collection Chinoiserie Bar
By Broyhill
Located in Charleston, SC
Broyhill "Ming Dynasty" Premier Collection buffet server / bar. This beautiful piece features a solid wood frame of dark stained maple with olive ash burlwood insets surrounded by bo...
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1970s American Vintage Ming Dry Bars
Materials
Cherry, Maple, Burl
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1960s George Zee Rosewood Chinoiserie Flip Top Bar Server
By George Zee
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
Fabulous mid century flip top server/bar by George Zee of Hong Kong. From the estate of an executive of the Ford Foundation. Purchased in Hong Kong while on business in the 1960’s.
Exceptional craftsmanship, solid as a rock. Double doors open to expose shelving along with 3 drawers. Ample storage. Brass hinges,unique joinery and detailed carved flush pulls...
Category
Mid-20th Century Hong Kong Ming Dry Bars
Materials
Rosewood
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Ming dry bars for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a broad range of unique Ming dry bars for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the Late 20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage dry bars created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include case pieces and storage cabinets and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, burl and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Ming dry bars made in a specific country, there are Asia, East Asia, and Hong Kong pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original dry bars, popular names associated with this style include Broyhill, and George Zee. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for dry bars differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $1,275 and tops out at $1,920 while the average work can sell for $1,598.
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