Chinese Lacquerware Table History and Design

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Close-up of hands holding a traditional Japanese lacquerware bowl at a table, capturing dining culture.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of hands holding a traditional Japanese lacquerware bowl at a table, capturing dining culture.

Chinese lacquerware tables have a rich history dating back to the Han Dynasty, around 206 BCE to 220 CE, when artisans first began using lacquer to create decorative and durable table tops.

The earliest known examples of Chinese lacquerware tables were made with a technique called "floating lacquer", where a layer of lacquer was applied to a surface and then scraped to create a smooth finish.

These early tables were highly prized by the Chinese aristocracy and were often used in formal settings, such as during banquets and ceremonial events.

Chinese lacquerware tables have also evolved over time to incorporate various design elements, including intricate carvings, inlays, and other decorative techniques, which were often inspired by nature and mythology.

Decorative Features

Chinese lacquerware tables are known for their intricate and beautiful decorative features. Many feature raised gilded decorative carving, such as on the red lacquer Chinese side table with three frieze drawers.

The use of gilded decoration is a common motif in Chinese lacquerware, adding a touch of luxury and elegance to the piece. This can be seen on the Qing Dynasty black and gold lacquer sewing table, which features ornate gilt decoration.

Credit: youtube.com, What Is Lacquerware In Imperial Furniture? - China Cultural Expedition

Some Chinese lacquerware tables also feature carved designs, such as the Chinese Dragon Carved Lacquered Hardwood Table, which has a carved dragon on the openwork apron. The use of carved designs adds a level of depth and texture to the piece, making it visually interesting.

The tables often have a rectangular or square shape, with some featuring a raised decoration, like the Chinese Long Black Lacquer Coffee Table. The height of the table can also vary, ranging from 40 cm to 78 cm, as seen on the Chinese Black Lacquer Floral Low Table and the Chinese Dragon Carved Lacquered Hardwood Table.

Ornaments

Ornaments are a crucial aspect of decorative features in Chinese lacquer furniture. They add visual interest, depth, and meaning to the piece.

Gilded decoration is a popular ornamentation technique used in Chinese lacquer furniture. It involves applying gold or gilt leaf to the surface of the lacquer to create intricate patterns and designs. This technique is seen in examples like the Red Lacquer Chinese Side Table with Gilded Decoration, which features raised gilded decorative carving above an apron with further gilded decoration.

Elegant red Chinese tea cups with traditional symbols on a decorative tablecloth.
Credit: pexels.com, Elegant red Chinese tea cups with traditional symbols on a decorative tablecloth.

Ornate gilt decoration can be found on various types of Chinese lacquer furniture, including sewing tables and coffee tables. The Qing Dynasty Black and Gold Lacquer Sewing Table with Ornaments, for instance, features ornate gilt decoration on its lyre supports and stretcher on four paw feet.

Inlays, such as stone inlays, are another type of ornament used in Chinese lacquer furniture. The Lacquered Stone Inlaid Coffee Table, Chinese, 1920s, showcases a stylish and good quality hard stone inlaid, lacquer and gilt square coffee table.

Dragon designs are a common ornament in Chinese lacquer furniture, often used to symbolize good fortune and prosperity. The Oriental Dragon Carved Lacquer Centre Table, for example, features a circular form with an ornate dragon amongst clouds, scroll, border, and frieze.

Incised designs, like the dragon design on the Dragon Incised Red Lacquer Table, are also used to add ornamentation to Chinese lacquer furniture. These designs can be found on various types of furniture, including tables and centerpieces.

Consider reading: Dining Chair Types

Coastal Landscape

Beautiful Chinese tea ceremony setup featuring ornate porcelain teapot and cups.
Credit: pexels.com, Beautiful Chinese tea ceremony setup featuring ornate porcelain teapot and cups.

A Chinese two-panel table screen from the 19th century features extensive coastal landscapes with rocky and tree highlights, red lacquer and gilt enrichments.

These table screens showcase the beauty of Chinese coastal landscapes, with intricate details that transport you to a serene and peaceful setting.

The pierced framing panels add a sense of lightness and airiness to the design, creating a sense of depth and dimensionality.

The black lacquer finish provides a dramatic backdrop for the vibrant red lacquer and gilt enrichments, drawing the eye to the central landscape.

Measuring 150 x 54.5 cm, these table screens make a striking addition to any room, adding a touch of cultural and artistic flair.

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Inlaid

Inlaid decorative features are a stunning way to add visual interest to a room. They involve embedding small pieces of material into a larger surface, often with intricate designs and patterns.

Hardstone and jade are popular materials used in inlaid table screens, as seen in the Qing Dynasty pair of Chinese Hardstone-Inlaid table screens. These materials are prized for their beauty and durability.

Credit: youtube.com, Add custom inlay to your woodworking projects. Making your own is easy!

The intricate piercing of hardwood is a notable feature of inlaid table screens, allowing for a delicate balance between solid and empty space. This technique is showcased in the Qing Dynasty pair of Chinese Hardstone-Inlaid table screens.

Mother-of-pearl is another material used in inlaid decorative features, as seen in the Ming Dynasty Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Lacquer Kang table. This material adds a soft, luminous quality to the design.

The use of small mother-of-pearl pieces to create intricate designs is a hallmark of inlaid decorative features. This is evident in the Ming Dynasty Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Lacquer Kang table's depiction of scholars gathered in a serene landscape.

Inlaid decorative features can be found in a range of objects, from tables to coffee tables. The Lacquered Stone Inlaid Coffee Table, Chinese, 1920s, is a stylish example of this trend.

The combination of hard stone inlays, lacquer, and gilt is a distinctive feature of the Lacquered Stone Inlaid Coffee Table, Chinese, 1920s. This decorative scheme creates a sense of luxury and sophistication.

For more insights, see: Mahogany Wood Coffee Table

Fretwork

Credit: youtube.com, Fretwork

Fretwork is a decorative feature that can add a touch of elegance to any piece of furniture. A great example of fretwork can be seen in the Chinese Red Lacquer Fretwork Side Table, where bold fretwork panels in geometric designs are used to create a visually appealing effect.

Fretwork is often used to create intricate patterns and designs on furniture. The Chinese Red Lacquer Fretwork Side Table features fretwork panels on a square form, adding visual interest to the overall design.

In some cases, fretwork is used to add a sense of movement and energy to a piece of furniture. The fretwork panels on the Chinese Red Lacquer Fretwork Side Table are designed to appear dynamic and engaging.

Fretwork can also be used to create a sense of balance and harmony in a piece of furniture. The fretwork panels on the Chinese Red Lacquer Fretwork Side Table are arranged in a way that creates a sense of balance and stability.

Fretwork is often used in combination with other decorative features, such as intricate carvings or inlays. However, the Chinese Red Lacquer Fretwork Side Table stands out for its bold use of fretwork as a standalone decorative feature.

If this caught your attention, see: Red Oak Furniture

Chinoiseries

Credit: youtube.com, Timeless Chinoiserie Home Decor Inspirations: Modern Ways to Embrace Eastern-Inspired Elegance

Chinoiseries are a distinctive decorative style that originated in China and have been used in various furniture pieces, including tables.

Chinoiseries often feature black lacquer backgrounds with intricate gilt decorations, as seen in the Black and Gold Dragon Nesting Tables and the 19th Century Chinese Export Lacquer Games Table with Gilt Chinoiseries.

These decorations can include scenes of sages on a terrace, flower and butterfly borders, and other motifs that add a touch of elegance to a room.

The Chinoiserie Lacquered Low Table is a great example of how this style can be used in smaller furniture pieces, with its black lacquer and decorative chinoiseries design.

Chinoiseries can also be used to add a sense of history and cultural significance to a room, as seen in the 19th Century Chinese Export Lacquer Games Table with Gilt Chinoiseries.

The intricate details of chinoiseries can be a great conversation starter in a room, and can add a touch of personality to a space.

Chinoiseries are a timeless decorative style that can add a sense of sophistication and elegance to any room, as seen in the Black and Gold Dragon Nesting Tables.

Maiden Landscape

Beautiful Chinese antique furniture in an elegant room with traditional decor and intricate carvings.
Credit: pexels.com, Beautiful Chinese antique furniture in an elegant room with traditional decor and intricate carvings.

Maiden Landscape is a decorative feature found in various Chinese art pieces. This style often features maidens in a serene landscape setting.

The Chinese Maiden Landscape Lacquer Low Table is a prime example of this style, showcasing maidens in a picturesque landscape on a black lacquer and hardstone surface.

Dimensions play a crucial role in the aesthetic appeal of these pieces, with the Chinese Maiden Landscape Lacquer Low Table measuring 132 x 59 x 48 cm.

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Painting

Painting is a crucial decorative feature that can instantly transform a room's ambiance.

A fresh coat of paint can make a significant difference in the overall aesthetic of a space, and it's a relatively inexpensive way to give your home a makeover.

Did you know that the average cost of painting a single room can range from $200 to $1,000, depending on the size and complexity of the job?

Using the right color palette can also greatly impact the mood and atmosphere of a room. For example, a soft blue can create a calming effect, while a bold red can energize the space.

A collection of handpainted dishes and wooden trays showcasing traditional decorative patterns.
Credit: pexels.com, A collection of handpainted dishes and wooden trays showcasing traditional decorative patterns.

Incorporating texture and pattern through paint can add depth and visual interest to a room. This can be achieved by using techniques like stenciling, stamping, or even using a texture additive.

Some homeowners also choose to paint a single accent wall in a bold, contrasting color to create a focal point in the room.

Curious to learn more? Check out: Paint Wooden Chair Ideas

Mirror

Mirrors can add a touch of elegance to any room, and their functionality is undeniable. They can be a great way to add some extra light to a space without taking up too much wall real estate.

The 19th-century Chinese Lacquer Dressing Table Mirror is a stunning example of this, standing at 78 cm high. It's a beautiful piece that would be a great addition to any antique or vintage-inspired decor.

In terms of size, a mirror like this can really make a statement in a small room, drawing the eye upwards and creating the illusion of more space.

Historical Periods

Credit: youtube.com, Chinese Lacquerware: Beauty Enduring Through Time

The Qing Dynasty, which lasted from 1644 to 1912, was a significant period in Chinese history, and it's reflected in the beautiful lacquerware tables from that time.

The Qing Dynasty was marked by a resurgence in traditional craftsmanship, and this is evident in the finely carved beading and lines found on the Kang table.

This period saw a focus on preserving and perfecting traditional techniques, resulting in exquisite pieces like the Qing Dynasty Kang table with its original deep brown lacquer finish.

The table measures 29 cm high, 82 cm wide, and 45 cm deep, showcasing the craftsmanship of the time.

Recommended read: Traditional Chinese Roofing

Early 20th

The early 20th century was a time of great change and innovation in China, and this is reflected in the beautiful pieces of furniture that were created during this period.

Chinese red lacquer furniture was particularly popular during this time, with examples such as the Chinese Red Lacquer Side Table, circa 1920, and the 1930 Chinese Red Lacquer Console Table with Bamboo Base showcasing the country's expertise in this craft.

Box with Floral Design
Credit: pexels.com, Box with Floral Design

A Chinese gilded black lacquer low table, circa 1920, was also created during this period, featuring intricate details and a unique design.

Chinese console tables from this era, such as the Red Lacquer Altar Console Table, Early 20th Century, often featured carved spandrels and shaped trestle ends, adding to their aesthetic appeal.

The early 20th century was a time of great experimentation in Chinese furniture design, with craftsmen pushing the boundaries of traditional techniques and materials to create truly unique pieces.

18th

In the 18th century, Chinese lacquer work was highly prized for its beauty and craftsmanship. A Chinese lacquer table from this era, like the one described, often featured intricate designs such as a writhing dragon chasing a flaming pearl amidst clouds and scrolling lotus.

These tables were not only decorative pieces but also functional, with some serving as painting tables, like the Chinese red lacquer painting table. This particular table was around 92 cm high and 234 cm wide, making it a substantial piece of furniture.

Archaistic scrolling aprons and legs were common features on 18th-century Chinese lacquer tables. The use of incised polychrome lacquer decoration added to the table's visual appeal and made it a true masterpiece of Chinese craftsmanship.

Ming Dynasty

Credit: youtube.com, Ming Dynasty

The Ming Dynasty, which lasted from 1368 to 1644, was a time of great cultural and artistic achievement in China. It was a period of significant economic and population growth.

During this time, Chinese artisans were known for their exceptional craftsmanship, as seen in the intricate designs and techniques used in the Ming Dynasty Lacquered Wood Table Screen with Inscription. The screen features precious antique objects decorated in red against a black lacquer background highlighted with gilding.

One of the notable features of Ming Dynasty art is the use of crushed abalone shell as a ground, as seen in the table screen. This technique added a sense of luxury and opulence to the artwork.

The Ming Dynasty was a time of great innovation and experimentation in art, and many of these techniques are still studied and admired today.

Dynasty

The Qing Dynasty was a significant period in Chinese history, lasting from 1644 to 1912. It was the last imperial dynasty in China.

A close-up shot of ceramic tea cups on a wooden tray, highlighting traditional and earthy textures.
Credit: pexels.com, A close-up shot of ceramic tea cups on a wooden tray, highlighting traditional and earthy textures.

During this time, exquisite craftsmanship was on display, as seen in the Qing Dynasty Black Lacquer Altar Table, which features a traditional lattice design along the front. The table's single plank elm top with everted ends is a testament to the attention to detail and skill of Chinese artisans.

The Qing Dynasty was marked by the use of black lacquer in many decorative items, including furniture and other household objects. This material was highly prized for its durability and aesthetic appeal.

In terms of physical characteristics, Qing Dynasty furniture often featured round legs ending in node feet, as seen in the altar table mentioned earlier. This design element added a touch of elegance and sophistication to the overall piece.

Kang

The Kang table is a piece of furniture that originated in China during the Qing Dynasty, which lasted from 1644 to 1912. This period saw the creation of many beautiful and intricate pieces of furniture, like the Qing Dynasty Kang table with a lacquer finish.

Fine Asian soup served in a decorative ceramic bowl placed on a dark wooden table.
Credit: pexels.com, Fine Asian soup served in a decorative ceramic bowl placed on a dark wooden table.

One notable feature of Kang tables is their use of carved beading and lines, which add to their aesthetic value. This level of craftsmanship is a testament to the skill of Chinese woodworkers during this time.

The Qing Dynasty Kang table mentioned in the article measures 29 cm high, 82 cm wide, and 45 cm deep. These dimensions give an idea of the table's compact yet functional design.

Kang tables were made from hardwood, which was a prized material for furniture-making during the Qing Dynasty. The use of hardwood added to the table's durability and beauty.

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Writing

Writing in historical periods often involved beautiful and intricately crafted objects like the Chinese Carved Lacquer Writing Table with Floral Motifs. This rectangular table was deeply carved with scrolling grasses and floral motifs, measuring 53 x 33 x 9 cm.

In ancient China, writing tables like this one were used by scholars and artists to create works of art. The table's design and craftsmanship reflect the importance of writing and art in Chinese culture.

The Chinese Carved Lacquer Writing Table with Floral Motifs is a testament to the skill and attention to detail of Chinese craftsmen. Its intricate carvings and beautiful design make it a stunning piece of historical art.

Geographical Influences

Credit: youtube.com, What Is Chinese Lacquerware? - Art Across Cultures

Chinese lacquerware tables are often made with a focus on regional styles, reflecting the unique cultural and geographical influences of different areas.

The use of red lacquer, for example, is a common feature in lacquerware from the southern province of Guangdong, where the wood available is often a reddish-brown color.

In contrast, lacquerware from the northern province of Shanxi tends to feature a more subdued color palette, with a focus on earthy tones that reflect the region's dry climate.

The geographical influences on Chinese lacquerware tables can be seen in the varying designs and techniques used across different regions, each with its own distinct character and charm.

Village

Village centre tables are a staple of Chinese furniture, with examples like the pair of Chinese black lacquer centre tables featuring a mountain top village by the sea, heightened in gilt.

These tables often have a detailed painted design, showcasing the region's scenic landscapes. The village centre tables are typically fitted with a drawer and a tier below.

Yellow Decorative Chinese Porcelain Plates on Display
Credit: pexels.com, Yellow Decorative Chinese Porcelain Plates on Display

The design of these tables reflects the geographical influence of the region's scenic beauty. The painted design on the tables is a testament to the region's rich cultural heritage.

The height of these tables is around 88 cm, with a width of 52 cm and a depth of 42 cm. This size makes them perfect for small spaces, like a traditional Chinese courtyard.

Hardwood

Hardwood is a versatile and sought-after material in furniture making, often used to create stunning pieces like the Qiaotouan table. This table, from 19th/20th century, features a lacquered hardwood construction.

The Qiaotouan table's rectangular panelled top with raised ends is a testament to the craftsmanship of hardwood furniture makers. The use of hardwood in this design allows for a rich, smooth finish.

Hardwood is a durable material that can withstand the test of time, as seen in the Qiaotouan table's enduring presence. Its ability to hold up to wear and tear makes it a popular choice for furniture makers.

The intricate details on the Qiaotouan table, such as the pierced foliate scroll spandrels, demonstrate the skill and attention to detail required when working with hardwood.

Stone

Close-up of traditional Chinese mooncakes on a wooden tray, perfect for festive celebrations.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of traditional Chinese mooncakes on a wooden tray, perfect for festive celebrations.

Stone from various regions is often used in decorative pieces, such as the Lacquered Stone Inlaid Coffee Table from China, circa 1920. This table features hard stone inlays, a testament to the region's skilled craftsmanship.

Hard stone inlays are a notable feature of Chinese decorative pieces, like the Lacquered Stone Inlaid Coffee Table. The use of hard stone inlays adds a touch of elegance to the table's design.

The Chinese have a long history of working with stone, as seen in the Lacquered Stone Inlaid Coffee Table. This expertise is evident in the table's intricate design and high-quality craftsmanship.

Export

Export influences on furniture design are evident in the ornate details and motifs found in Chinese export lacquer pieces. These pieces were crafted in China for export to other countries, often featuring intricate gilt chinoiseries on black ground.

Chinese export lacquer games tables, like the one from the 19th century, were decorated with scenes of sages on a terrace within a flower and butterfly border. This design element is a classic example of the fusion of Eastern and Western aesthetics.

White Ceramic Tea Set for Traditional Tea Ceremony
Credit: pexels.com, White Ceramic Tea Set for Traditional Tea Ceremony

The use of birdcase bases and baluster support pedestals on Chinese export lacquer tables, such as the early 19th-century circular table, added a touch of elegance and sophistication. The carved paw feet on these pieces also showcase the attention to detail that was characteristic of Chinese export lacquer craftsmanship.

These ornate details and motifs not only reflect the cultural exchange between China and other countries but also highlight the influence of export markets on the development of furniture design.

Bamboo

Bamboo is a versatile material used in various forms of furniture, particularly in Asian cultures. Chinese bamboo side tables, like the one from the Estate of Martyn Cook, Sydney, showcase the material's use in decorative pieces.

The height of a Chinese bamboo side table can range from 62 cm to 74 cm, depending on the design. The width and depth of these tables can also vary, with some measuring 71 cm by 71 cm and others 125 cm by 61 cm.

A fresh viewpoint: Midcentury Modern Side Table

Close-up of traditional Chinese mooncakes with red stamps on a wooden board, ideal for festive occasions.
Credit: pexels.com, Close-up of traditional Chinese mooncakes with red stamps on a wooden board, ideal for festive occasions.

The Qing Dynasty was known for its use of bamboo in furniture-making, as seen in the pair of bamboo stands with black lacquer tops. These stands have a distinctive lattice design on their aprons and flared feet.

Bamboo stands can be used as functional pieces, such as the Qing Dynasty bamboo stands with black lacquer tops, which have a diameter of 45 cm.

Burma

Burma is a country in Southeast Asia known for its beautiful lacquerware. The Burma Lacquer Octagonal Side Table is a stunning example of this craftsmanship, with a height of 38 cm and a diameter of 41 cm.

In Burma, artisans are skilled in the traditional art of lacquerware making. The Burma Lacquer Octagonal Side Table features hinged legs, showcasing the attention to detail and expertise of Burmese craftsmen.

Burmese lacquerware is highly valued for its durability and beauty. The Burma Lacquer Octagonal Side Table is a testament to this, with its intricate design and sturdy construction.

Garden

Rustic tea set with herbal tea and traditional Asian snacks arranged on a wooden mat.
Credit: pexels.com, Rustic tea set with herbal tea and traditional Asian snacks arranged on a wooden mat.

Garden settings have been a popular theme in decorative arts from around the world. Chinese lacquer nest of three tables, decorated with figures in a garden setting, is a stunning example of this.

The Mollies Boutique hotel in Auckland is the provenance of this beautiful piece. It's a great reminder that even in a hotel setting, there can be hidden gems waiting to be discovered.

Garden-inspired decorative arts often feature natural elements and serene scenes. Chinese lacquer nest of three tables is a perfect representation of this style.

The intricate details and craftsmanship that go into creating these pieces are truly remarkable.

If this caught your attention, see: Lawn Chair Furniture

Elm

Elm is a versatile wood species used in various furniture pieces, including side tables and low tables. Chinese Elm is a popular choice for furniture making due to its durability and resistance to decay.

The Chinese Elm wood used in these pieces is often paired with red lacquer, as seen in the Chinese Elm and Red Lacquer Side Tables. This combination creates a striking visual effect.

Assorted-color Gift Boxes
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The Chinese Elm Low Table has a lacquer finish, which adds a layer of protection to the wood. The table's dimensions are 35 cm in height, 56 cm in length, and 44 cm in depth.

Carved elm is also used in more intricate pieces, like the Qing Dynasty Carved Elm Altar Table. This table features carved supports and a top with everted scroll ends and exposed tenons.

Design Styles

Chinese lacquerware tables often feature intricate designs, but one of the most iconic styles is the "Qing dynasty" style, characterized by bold, geometric patterns.

This style emerged during the Qing dynasty, which ruled China from 1644 to 1912. It's a testament to the artisans' skill and attention to detail.

In terms of materials, Chinese lacquerware tables can be made from a variety of woods, including nanmu and huangpao. These woods are prized for their durability and resistance to warping.

Centre

Centre pieces can add a touch of elegance to any room. A Chinese red lacquered centre table can be a stunning focal point, measuring 88 cm in height and 92 cm in width and depth.

Top view of red and black wrapped gift boxes with ribbons on a black surface, ideal for festive occasions.
Credit: pexels.com, Top view of red and black wrapped gift boxes with ribbons on a black surface, ideal for festive occasions.

The ornate details of a centre table can also add visual interest. The Oriental Dragon Carved Lacquer Centre Table features an ornate dragon amongst clouds, scroll, border, and frieze.

In terms of size, a centre table can be compact or spacious. The Chinese Black Lacquer Village Centre Tables measure 88 x 52 x 42 cm, making them a great option for smaller spaces.

The shape of a centre table can also vary. The Oriental Dragon Carved Lacquer Centre Table has a circular form, while the Chinese red lacquer centre table has a square top.

A centre table's legs can also be decorative. The Chinese red lacquer centre table features square sectioned legs joined by stretchers, decorated in red, green, and yellow lacquer.

The addition of drawers or tiers can also enhance a centre table's functionality. The Chinese Black Lacquer Village Centre Tables feature one drawer and a tier below.

Chinoiserie

Chinoiserie is a design style that originated in Europe and was heavily influenced by Chinese art and culture. It's characterized by intricate and colorful depictions of Chinese motifs, such as flowers, birds, and pagodas.

Credit: youtube.com, Chinoiserie Home Decor: Elegant Tips for Decorating with Asian-Inspired Style

Chinoiserie often features black lacquer as a primary material, as seen in a 39 cm high, 79 cm wide, 53 cm deep black lacquer chinoiserie decorated low table. This style was popularized through Chinese export lacquerware, which was made in China for European markets.

The decorative elements of chinoiserie are often gilded, adding a touch of luxury and sophistication to the design. A Chinese export lacquer games table, for example, is decorated all over with gilt chinoiseries on a black ground.

Chinoiserie designs often feature intricate borders and patterns, such as the flower and butterfly border on a Chinese export lacquer games table. This attention to detail is a hallmark of the chinoiserie style.

Leg and Shelf Configurations

Chinese lacquerware tables often feature unique leg and shelf configurations that add to their aesthetic appeal. The pierced lower shelf of the Chinese lacquer altar table is a notable example of this.

In some designs, the legs are carved to create intricate patterns and shapes, as seen on the Chinese lacquer altar table. This attention to detail can elevate the overall look of the table.

The rectangular top and two drawers of the Chinese lacquer altar table are typically raised on four carved legs, united by the pierced lower shelf.

Five Legs

A collection of colorful gift boxes with floral patterns and ribbons, perfect for celebrations.
Credit: pexels.com, A collection of colorful gift boxes with floral patterns and ribbons, perfect for celebrations.

Five Legs is a simple yet effective configuration that can add stability and balance to a piece of furniture. The Chinese red lacquer altar table has four facetted legs that provide a sturdy base.

This configuration is often used in traditional Asian furniture, where a solid base is essential for holding the weight of decorative items. The altar table's legs are facetted, which means they have flat surfaces and sharp edges.

A five-legged configuration can also be used to create a sense of balance and harmony in a room. The Chinese red lacquer altar table's rectangular top and facetted legs work together to create a sense of equilibrium.

In terms of size, the altar table's legs are likely proportionate to the rest of the piece, providing a stable base without overwhelming the overall design.

Stand

The stand is a crucial component of many Chinese lacquer tables, providing stability and support. A good example is the Qing Dynasty Red Lacquer Table Pedestal Stand, which features a stretcher moulded apron above a stretcher base.

A rustic ceramic teapot and cup set on a wooden table against a brick wall, basking in sunlight.
Credit: pexels.com, A rustic ceramic teapot and cup set on a wooden table against a brick wall, basking in sunlight.

Some stands, like the Qing Dynasty Bamboo Stands, have a circular black lacquer tabletop. These stands have a lattice design apron above six legs with flared feet, standing at a height of 80 cm with a diameter of 45 cm.

The stand can also be a decorative element, as seen in the Black Lacquer Console Table with Reticulated Base. This table features an intricate reticulated base that adds visual interest to the overall design.

In some cases, the stand can be designed to be lockable, as in the Red Lacquer Chinese Console Table with Four Lockable Drawers. This adds an extra layer of security and functionality to the table.

The shape and design of the stand can also vary, such as the 19th Century Chinese Black Lacquer Oval Pedestal Table, which features an oval shape and a height of 87 cm.

Overall, the stand is a vital component of many Chinese lacquer tables, providing both function and style.

For more insights, see: Oak Tv Console Furniture

Sword-Leg

Chinese Decoration Hanging on Wall
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The sword-leg configuration is a unique and striking design. This style originated in China during the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912), as seen in the example of the Qing Dynasty Sword-Leg Altar Table.

This type of leg design is characterized by its sword-like shape, which adds a touch of elegance and sophistication to a piece of furniture. The Qing Dynasty Sword-Leg Altar Table measures 95 cm high, 200 cm wide, and 45 cm deep.

The finely carved beaded apron and edges to the legs of this table are a testament to the skilled craftsmanship of Chinese artisans during this period.

Hardwood Leg

Hardwood leg tables can be a beautiful addition to any room. They often feature intricate carvings or ornate details, like the foliate scroll medallion found on the Qiaotouan table.

The rectangular legs of a hardwood leg table can frame an inset openwork panel, as seen in the Qiaotouan example. This design element adds visual interest and can create a sense of depth.

Hardwood leg tables can have a variety of shapes and sizes, but the rectangular panelled top is a common design choice.

Cabriole Legs

Credit: youtube.com, How to make Cabriole Legs

Cabriole legs are a distinctive feature of some furniture pieces, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication. They are characterized by a curved shape, often seen on legs of tables, such as the early 20th century red lacquer offering table mentioned earlier.

Cabriole legs are typically curved in the middle, resembling a horse's leg, which is where they get their name. This unique shape adds a decorative element to the overall design of the piece.

Some cabriole legs are adorned with stretchers, which are horizontal supports that connect the legs, providing additional stability. The red lacquer offering table on cabriole legs has stretchers, which help to reinforce the structure of the table.

Cabriole legs can also feature gilt banding, a decorative element that adds a touch of luxury to the design. The red lacquer offering table on cabriole legs has gilt banding, which adds a sense of opulence to the overall design.

Cabriole legs are often used on smaller furniture pieces, such as tables and chests, due to their delicate and intricate shape.

For another approach, see: Cabriole Leg Chair

Size and Measurement

Crop artist painting at table
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Chinese lacquerware tables come in various sizes, but some popular options include the Chinoiserie black lacquer table, which is 62 cm high.

The height of a Chinese lacquerware table can range from 50 cm to 81 cm, as seen in the Red Lacquer Chinese Hall Table, which is 81 cm high.

A Chinoiserie black lacquer table is 71 cm deep, while the Red Lacquer Chinese Hall Table is 50 cm deep.

The width of a Chinese lacquerware table can be quite large, with the Red Lacquer Chinese Hall Table measuring 173 cm wide.

142 cm

The length of an object can be a crucial measurement in determining its purpose and functionality. The Carved Phoenix Chinese Black Lacquer Low Table measures 142 cm in length.

A length of 142 cm can be a good fit for a small to medium-sized room, providing ample space for displaying decorative items or serving as a coffee table.

Measuring objects can be an essential skill in everyday life, whether it's for shopping, decorating, or simply understanding the dimensions of a piece of furniture.

Broaden your view: Chair Seat Length

62x92x71 cm

An elegant display of Chinese banquet dishes featuring fish, desserts, and vibrant accompaniments.
Credit: pexels.com, An elegant display of Chinese banquet dishes featuring fish, desserts, and vibrant accompaniments.

The Chinoiserie black lacquer table stands at 62 cm high. This height is significantly lower than the 81 cm height of the red lacquer hall table.

A Chinoiserie black lacquer table measures 92 cm wide, making it a substantial piece of furniture. The red lacquer hall table is only 173 cm wide, which is much larger.

The Chinoiserie black lacquer table is 71 cm deep, a depth that is likely to accommodate a decent amount of storage or display space.

173cm

173cm is a common height for many people, roughly equivalent to 5 feet 8 inches.

This height is often considered average for adults in many countries.

In the metric system, 173cm can be broken down into its base units as 1 meter and 73 centimeters.

A person with this height may have a corresponding weight range of 55-75 kilograms.

Occasional

Occasional tables are a great way to add functionality to a room without taking up too much space. They're perfect for serving drinks, holding decorative items, or providing a surface for guests to set their belongings.

Credit: youtube.com, Turning old tables into luxury goods in China——Mother-of-pearl Lacquer Ware #chinese【WangZhiming】

You can find occasional tables in various styles, including Chinese Export black lacquer, which is known for its high-quality finish and intricate designs. Moulded and gilt scenes are a common feature of this style.

Occasional tables are often used to add a touch of elegance to a room, and a well-placed one can make a big impact. In the case of the Chinese Export black lacquer table mentioned earlier, the moulded and gilt scene of a lady in a rickshaw and an attendant adds a touch of whimsy and sophistication.

The label on the table, "Maitland-Smith Limited Cabinet & Chair Maker 5 Leroy Building 15 Cheung Shun Street Cheung Sha Wan Kowloon", provides a glimpse into the table's history and provenance.

Roger Molenaar

Senior Writer

Roger Molenaar is a writer who loves to explore the world and write about his experiences. He has been traveling for years, having visited over 50 countries around the globe. His passion for learning about different cultures and meeting new people is evident in his writing, which often features insights into local customs and traditions.

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