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ANTIQUES
61
June14
THE TRUTH ABOUT
We asked some resident antique retailers to dispel some of the
most common preconceptions surrounding antiques.
“Yes, rosewood furniture is part of Chinese furniture, but it’s
so much more than that – so much more varied,” says
Just
Anthony director Danielle Lee
. “Some pieces are ornate and
heavy, but many others have a simple or rustic look that can
easily fit with modern décor. Very good examples are Ming-
style pieces: their simple lines and elegant design make them
timeless, which is why they continue to be reproduced today.”
Recommended Reading
Just Anthony’s Danielle gives us her list of useful books
for when you’re looking for ideas on how to mix and
match Chinese furniture and accessories. “These are
inspirational interior design books that have helped
increase the popularity of Chinese furniture.”
•
China Style
by Sharon Leece, published by Periplus
•
Chinese Style, the Art of Living
, by Bradley Quinn,
published by Conran Octopus
•
China Modern
by Sharon Leece, published by Periplus
•
China Living
by Sharon Leece, published by Periplus
PRECONCEPTION:
Chinese furniture is all about dark rosewood or lacquer,
and is too ornate and heavy for most homes.
Chris Ang, general manager at Woody Antique
House
, agrees. “An authentic piece of furniture does
not need to be very ornately carved or painted. There
are simple pieces, like the Chinese wedding cabinet or
the sideboard, which have less carving and yet are able
to bring a certain antique style to your home décor.”
Simple pieces
such as this
wedding
cabinet and
sideboard
from Woody
Antique House
work well as
standalone
items mixed
with other
styles.
This pair of double-door panels from Just
Anthony has the original patina and carving,
and would complement a rustic-style home.
Black sideboard from Tianjin, made mainly
from elm and some fir wood. Just Anthony
kept the original colour and replaced the
handles with brass ones.