Before the Ming dynasty, most fine furniture was made of lacquered softwoods. In the Ming hardwood furniture became more and more fashionable. Most of the highly desired wood for furniture came from South East Asia. As hardwood furniture was more durable, most of the examples of classical Chinese furniture that now exist come from the Ming period or later. How does this canopy bed differ from the one seen below?
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A woodblock print from a Ming dynasty novel showing a woman relaxing in her bed.
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Below is a picture of a Ming Dynasty "Luohan bed."
This piece of furniture might be placed in a reception hall or in a
studio for relaxation during the day. A kang table could be used
on top of it for enjoying refreshments. |
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Ming dynasty luohan bed
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Certain kinds of beds such as the one seen to the right
resemble platforms more than beds. |
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A Ming Dynasty woodblock print showing a man on a daybed
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