Ming Desks and Writing Tables
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.
1920s Chinese Vintage Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Lacquer
20th Century Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Cherry
Late 20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood
1950s Italian Vintage Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood
1890s Spanish Antique Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Iron
1880s French Antique Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood
21st Century and Contemporary Italian Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Leather, Cherry
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Brass
2010s Turkish Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Marble, Metal, Brass
1970s French Vintage Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Pine
20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
2010s German Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Cherry
1970s Vintage Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Steel
20th Century Italian Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood
2010s Italian Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Brass
Mid-20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Brass
Late 20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Lacquer
Late 20th Century Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Lacquer
Late 20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Lacquer
Early 20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood
Early 20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Bronze
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Bronze
20th Century Chinese Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood
1920s Chinese Vintage Ming Desks and Writing Tables
Wood