Sample Exhibitions of the National Palace Museum (II)

As introduced by the National Palace Museum

Furniture in Paintings

The history of Chinese painting is splendidly rich and remarkably long. Of relatively equal length is the history of Chinese furniture which is the focus of this exhibit.

Furniture, unlike painting, which was highly regarded, non-utilitarian and hence well preserved, did not survive the ravages of time well. Most of today's extant furniture dates from the Ming and Ching Dynasties (1368-1911). Evidence from tombs, temple architecture, murals, prints and paintings, however, provides a wealth of information regarding its history.

Some of the paintings on display have been attributed to such early periods as the Tang Dynasty (618-907) and the Five Dynasties period (907-960). Furniture prevalent during these periods included screens, racks, stools, tables and platforms, while some of the new forms that appeared were sidechairs, armchairs and benches.

During the Sung Dynasty (960-1279), an even greater variety became available with the increase in technology. As evidenced in the decorative waists and scepter- and floral-shaped legs from this period, more interest was given to the details of chairs and tables.

In the following dynasty, the Yuan (1279-1368), more complex styles and varieties appeared, such as the screened platform, drawered table and the "barbarian seat" -- the Mongolians of the Yuan are traditionally considered by the Han Chinese as less civilized.

The Ming Dynasty (1368-1644) witnessed a peak in the art of furniture, and is celebrated for its elegant but simple forms of high quality. During this period, the number of craftsmen increased and their standards reached new heights.

During the last dynasty, the Ching (1644-1911), styles and techniques were adopted from foreign sources, resulting in many unique designs. This period is characterized by weighty, ornate furniture.