Chinese Black Lacquer Wine Table, c. 1900

This mid-19th century fang deng (square stool) was made in Hebei province and crafted of elm foraged from the forests of northern China. The stretchers encircling the outer edges of the rounded legs highlight the masterful carpentry employed to create this very pure and simple form in the most elegant Ming fashion. This detail gives the design a natural flow and references bent bamboo. Chinese carpenters during the Qing dynasty held simplicity and craftsmanship in equal regard. In this spirit they emulated the simpler forms of bamboo furniture making that were popular in earlier times...

Stools have been a favored form of seating in Chinese culture for centuries and were used indoors and out at mealtimes and during social gatherings. This style of low square stool is...

Antique 18th century Chinese wine table in black lacquer. Tabletop with black lacquered canvas sitting above an elegant apron accented with carved spandrels. The tabletop is covered with canvas, as the original thick black lacquer only would fasten to a canvas surface. The tabletop is outlined with a subtle raised edge, a water-stopping moulding intended to prevent wine from spilling onto the floor. Shanxi Province, 1750-1780. Wine tables have been used in China for centuries as a spot to converse, sip wine, and make toasts at social gatherings. It was also the norm for the master of the house...

Chinese style leaf table in black lacquered wood with a gilt decor. Two leaves adorned with large cartouches framing Chinese-style landscape scenes with pagodas, junks, etc. They sta...