Ming furniture, made during the 15th to 17th century, is known for its elegant, restrained simple lines, precious woods and superb craftsmanship. The philosophy during this era is reflected through its furniture, as respect for oneself and humanity was illustrated in the workmanship.
This furniture was created specifically with the human body in mind and is considered to be proportionally correct. Ergonomics played a role in the craftsmanship of Ming furniture as, for instance, the backs of chairs were made with an “S” shape to fit the natural curve of the back and armrests were curved so arms and hands could fall naturally onto each armrest. Beds were created to evoke a sense of safety, thereby allowing rest. For instance, beds were created with sides so people would not roll out of bed, as portrayed in the pictures below.
Ming furniture is made from hardwoods made available through the open sea trade at the time, of which today only the Senna Siamea is not considered rare. Royalty and the wealthy treasured Ming furniture that was inlaid with natural stones, ivory and enamel. The craftsmanship was such that a piece would be able to be separated and put back together as the Chinese moved often. Built without nails or glue, this furniture was made with “complex joinery – tenon and mortise structure" that compensated for humidity so warping did not occur. Today, as a result of the rarity of the wood Ming furniture was built from, as well as its classical beauty, function and simplicity, authentic Ming furniture is highly coveted by collectors, especially among the nouveau riche of the Chinese as a way of getting back to their ancestry.
The amazing intricate detail put into the Ming furniture could be an inspiration to the lives of many. If we took the time to make each piece of our lives fit exactly how we needed it , and make it to where we could easily undo it if we wanted to, with such detail and beauty in which hides any flaws that could possibly be there are hidden, the beauty of life would stand out more than the mistakes. Rather than the way it currently stands with the mistakes being a forefront, and having to squint just to see the beauty.
ReplyDeleteWhen I think of furniture from the Ming era, the first adjectives that come to mind are ornate, elaborate and intricate. I have been fortunate enough to encounter several of these Ming pieces and must say that pictures do not do justice. The detail and craftsmanship of each piece is something that cannot truly be admired until seen in person. Unique does not begin to describe the stories that are told through the etchings and engravings found on a large portion of this furniture. It was mentioned also that all of this was done without nails or glue; often consisting of many parts, the pieces of the furniture had to be put together like a jigsaw puzzle.
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