Chinese Antique Furniture
Antique Chinese benches can be very useful in western homes, as the form is quite universally simple and functional. The antique bench from China works well with contemporary pieces and can be used in many ways as well. Some use two benches at the ends of a sofa. One frequently finds that benches are used as side tables next to armchairs. Benches are also used as coffee tables. In other words, Chinese antique benches are used today in western style houses with the same variety of uses as found in China.
What are the differences between benches and stools? This question has multiple correct answers. The commonly viewed interpretation of the differences between the two forms of furniture is that a stool would be a seat for one person and a bench for more than one.
A Chinese bench or other piece of furniture certainly catches the eye. Appreciation of antique furniture in China, as something other than simply used household goods, is new. Eastern societies, in contrast to many Western cultures, often did not value old or antique furniture. Antique furniture did not receive the same level of care that it would have in other cultures. Keep in mind that the Chinese don’t make use of hardwood flooring very much. Moisture absorption from the skin is more common with indoor furniture; also, since the availability of indoor heating varies more in the East than the West, furniture is exposed to a greater range of temperatures. These observations are true, of course, for all Chinese antique furniture, and they are mentioned here only because many of the old benches available in the West have repairs and evidence of moisture having been absorbed through the legs. Repairs in Chinese furniture are ubiquitous.
For more information, be sure to visit www.chineseantiquefurnitureshop.com.