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How do you identify Ming dynasty furniture?
1 Answer

To identify Ming dynasty furniture, first check the legs, back, undersides and other inconspicuous areas to see if you can locate any maker's markings. If you do, snap a photo with your phone and perform a reverse image search. You may be able to determine the maker and year of production. The Ming dynasty lasted from 1368 to 1644 in China. Furniture from this time period often features natural woods and shows off simple lines. Because artisans working during the era typically used mortise and tenon joinery, authentic Ming Dynasty furnishings will usually not have any visible nails or screws. However, there are many convincing reproductions on the market, so experts generally recommend having a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer perform the identification process for you. Shop a collection of Ming dynasty furniture on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertNovember 4, 2024
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Shop for Ming Furniture on 1stDibs
Chinese Ming Dynasty Ko-Sometsuke Wucai Porcelain Plate
Located in Newark, England
CHONGZHENG 1628-1644
From our Chinese collection, we are delighted to offer this rare example Chinese Ko-Sometsuke Wucai Porcelain Plate. The plate potted in porcelain ceramic of ci...
Category
Antique Early 17th Century Chinese Ming Ceramics
Materials
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Located in Greenwich, CT
Elegant black lacquer console table with five drawers, brass fitting. Simple form and beautiful color. We carry fine quality furniture with elegant finished and has been appeared man...
Category
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'Kraak' Blue and White Large Porcelain Charger, 20.5", Wan Li Reign, circa 1610
Located in Kinderhook, NY
A museum calibre circa 1610 blue and white Chinese 'Kraak' charger or shallow bowl of massive scale, the round cavetto molded body with slightly scalloped flat rim boldly and exquisitely painted in vibrant underglaze blue with flowering peach, peony, and scroll-filled basket with protruding roots on a fenced terrace within an eight pointed scalloped medallion with ruyi-heads separating panels of starburst-lattice and fish-roe diaper, the rim with Rinaldi 'Border VII.2' having eight radiating panels filled with peach-sprays and auspicious symbols alternating with narrow swastika and tassel panels, the reverse painted with large 'ogival' or round panels with fungus and dots alternating with narrow panels containing stylized lingzhi motifs. An exceptionally fine example with the added rarity of an intact period (likely trader's or merchant's) wax seal.
According to Hans van Baarsen...
Category
Antique Early 17th Century Chinese Ming Ceramics
Materials
Porcelain
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Located in West Chester, PA
Vintage Asian inspired console table with carved apron.
Knee clearance 23.75”
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Category
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Black Lacquer Console Table
Located in Greenwich, CT
Simple black lacquer console table with waterfall legs, elegant color and lines
Category
Late 20th Century Chinese Ming Console Tables
Materials
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$2,500 Sale Price
28% Off
Fine Black Lacquer Console Table
Located in Greenwich, CT
Fine black lacquer console table with four drawers, waterfall legs, brass fitting, elegant and simple form, beautiful lines. We carry fine quality furniture with elegant finished and...
Category
Late 20th Century Chinese Ming Console Tables
Materials
Lacquer