Oriental furniture (I) January 21, 2010 at 11:39 pm

Oriental furniture 1Contrary to what people think, Chinese chairs are not uncomfortable. They are molded especially for sitting and the armrests, rounded off to fit the arms. They create an interesting effect when matched with a rosewood table or a rosewood stool used as a small table, for that matter. Chinese or Korean cupboards can be used to store liquor, porcelain, stereo equipment or whatever suits your imagination. Indian dowry boxes make attractive coffee tables or jewel chests and Thai noodle carts can be converted into bar trolleys. Oriental furniture and items are not only functional but make good conversation pieces in the home. Of the countries in the East, the most popular products among people in Singapore appear to be those from China.

The early Chinese used different types of wood to build their furniture, the two most popular varieties being rosewood and nanwood. Rosewood called Huang Hua Li in Chinese is recognized by its fine close grain and nanwood or “nan mu” is another costly wood used for making luxurious elegant furniture and at certain periods in Chinese history, was reserved mainly for emperors. Furniture in the early days was made to be taken apart easily; to facilitate transport and ensure easy repair without damage to the wood. No nails, screens or glue were used. Joints were put together with tongue in groove connections with wooden pegs that allowed the wood to expand or contract without splitting.

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