Ming-Style Furniture

Ming-style furniture refers not only to pieces crafted during the Ming Dynasty but also to a distinctive style of traditional Chinese furniture. It represents a unique cultural aesthetic, characterized by hardwood furniture made from materials like rosewood (zitan) and pearwood (huali) since the mid-Ming period. Although Ming-style hardwood furniture was produced in many regions across China, pieces crafted by skilled artisans in the Jiangnan region, centered around Suzhou, are widely regarded as the finest. As a result, Suzhou-made furniture is considered the authentic standard of Ming-style furniture, often referred to as “Suzhou Ming-style furniture” or simply “Su-style.”

The hallmark features of Ming-style furniture are its elegant design, meticulous material selection, and exquisite craftsmanship. With a long history, Chinese furniture craftsmanship evolved into a distinctive form by the Ming Dynasty, earning the designation “Ming-style.” This furniture embodies the cultural spirit, refinement, and charm of traditional Chinese aesthetics, featuring subtle yet intricate decorations and beautifully carved details.