Antique Coffee Tables

Antique Gifts

Bring a Touch of History Into Your Home With an Antique Wood Coffee Table


Combining charm, elegance and a unique touch of history, an antique wood coffee table makes the ideal addition to a contemporary interior. At Shimu we offer a wide and ever-changing selection of antique coffee tables from China. From traditional Kang tables, chests and trunks, to low tables and rustic low benches, our range includes original pieces which have been carefully chosen by our team and imported directly to the UK.

 


Discover Vintage Wood Chinese Antique Coffee Tables

Antique Chinese coffee tables are ideal for use as functional furniture pieces which also hold historical and artistic significance. The craftsmanship of these tables reflects the meticulous skills passed down through generations.

Traditionally, Chinese furniture makers favoured types of wood such as elm, rosewood, and sandalwood, all known for their durability and the natural beauty of their grains. The choice of wood, along with the design, played a crucial role in the table's aesthetic and structural integrity. Many antique Chinese coffee tables feature intricate carvings that depict scenes from mythology, nature, or daily life, offering insight into the cultural and artistic values of the period in which they were made.

The architecture of these tables often reflects the broader principles seen in Chinese art and architecture, including balance and symmetry. Despite their ornate decorations, there is a clear emphasis on maintaining a harmonious and uncluttered look, which aligns with the traditional Chinese aesthetic of simplicity and functionality.

During various dynasties, the design elements of Chinese coffee tables evolved, influenced by the prevailing political, social, and economic conditions. For example, during the Ming Dynasty, a period known for its cultural prosperity, furniture design favoured simplicity and elegance with minimal ornamentation. In contrast, the Qing Dynasty saw more elaborate decorations as well as the incorporation of Western design elements, reflecting the increased contact with European traders during that period.

Today, antique Chinese coffee tables are sought after not only by collectors and connoisseurs of Asian antiques but also by design-conscious homeowners seeking unique pieces that add an element of historical elegance to modern living spaces. These tables offer a link to the past, embodying the skills, traditions, and artistic expressions of ancient China.

Shop for Antique Wood Coffee Tables at Shimu - The Home of Chinese Furniture

Here at Shimu, we offer a variety of antique and vintage-style Chinese coffee tables, alongside a wide range of other furniture pieces that can be creatively used as coffee tables, such as low tables, benches, trunks, and chests. These pieces often incorporate traditional Chinese materials and designs, including lacquered finishes and intricate carvings that highlight the natural beauty of wood.

Low tables and altar tables are notable for their versatility and aesthetic appeal. These tables, traditionally lower in height, can serve both decorative and functional roles in modern living spaces. Benches and stools, while primarily for seating, can also be used creatively as coffee tables, providing a rustic or minimalist aesthetic that complements a variety of interior designs. Trunks and chests are particularly useful thanks to their dual functionality. They provide ample storage while making unique coffee tables that add a historical element to home décor.

Our collection includes items finished in natural wood tones as well as those featuring black lacquer, a testament to the traditional techniques that have been preserved through generations of Chinese artisans. These pieces are often embellished with brass handles and carved details, enhancing their visual impact and historical value.

At Shimu our range of furniture offers a unique opportunity to incorporate pieces into your home that are functional and carry the aesthetic and historical weight of traditional Chinese artisan skill. Shopping at Shimu is easy and all pieces are available for convenient delivery directly to your home. Alternatively, why not visit our light and airy showroom which is located in Albion Mills, Greengates, West Yorkshire?

 





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