Get a free estimate for your Chinese furniture
Key takeaways
- Experts provide free appraisals of Chinese furniture within 24 hours, taking into account age, provenance, condition, and rarity to provide an accurate estimate.
- Chinese furniture dating from before 1911 is the most sought-after; artisanal production ceased with the Republican Revolution and did not resume until after 1990.
- Valuations vary widely: 20th-century armchairs range from €100 to €105,000, while 19th-century sedan chairs range from €400 to €380,000.
Do you own Chinese furniture and would like to determine its value? Our specialists offer a free 24-hour appraisal of your Chinese furniture, providing you with an estimate of its value on the current market and then guiding you to make a sale at the most advantageous price possible. They take into account factors such as age, provenance, state of preservation and rarity of the work to provide an accurate, documented estimate.
The history and influence of Chinese furniture
In some parts of China, few stylistic changes occurred between the 18th and early 20th centuries, due to the preservation of old patterns typical of traditional societies. Major developments such as the shift of trade to the southern coasts and increased cultural interaction mean that stylistic evolution can be more clearly identified. Nevertheless, this transformation of the Qing style only concerns the large southern provinces, while the north retains a pre-modern culture, with styles influenced by the origin and diversity of the peoples.
The Republican Revolution of 1911 constitutes the only major indicator of the antiquity of Chinese furniture, putting an end to furniture production in China. The social tensions generated by conflicts, revolutions, famines and population displacements made it difficult to manufacture handcrafted furniture. Although China has resumed furniture production since the 1990s, it has little in common with earlier works. Many books deal with these upheavals that have impacted local craftsmanship and antique Chinese furniture.
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The evolution of Chinese furniture
In ancient China, furniture was valued primarily for its utility and was mostly handcrafted, making it difficult to track the evolution of Chinese cabinetmaking due to the lack of detailed descriptions. The appreciation of furniture as we know it today seems to be a fairly recent aspect in Chinese history, and antique furniture is rare and scattered in private collections or museums around the world.
The Opium War not only caused the loss of many Chinese treasures accumulated over dynasties, but also affected Chinese creativity. Cabinetmaking and other Chinese arts were transformed into an art of pure form, devoid of the creativity of yesteryear. Despite this, Chinese culture has continued to evolve, adapting to outside influences and finding new ways to express its artistic identity. The quality of Chinese furniture, in particular lacquering and fixing methods, testifies to the excellence of Chinese craftsmanship, surpassing even Europe in this respect.
Order of value of Chinese furniture from the most basic to the most prestigious
Type of furniture | Estimation | Pair of Chinese armchairs (20th century) | From €100 to €105,000 |
|---|---|
Chinese tabouret (Late 19th century) | From 50 to 90 000€ |
Carrier furniture (19th century) | From 400 to 380 000€ |
Carved wood bookcase (19th century) | From €200 to €43,000 |
Wood pedestal table with mother-of-pearl marquetry | From €50 to €65,000 |
Commode (19th century) | From €100 to €49,000 |
Architectural elements (window frame, door, ...) | From €50 to €29,000 |
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Knowing the value of a piece of Chinese furniture
If you own a piece of Chinese furniture or any other piece of Asian art, don't hesitate to request a free appraisal by filling in our online form.
A member of our team of experts and licensed auctioneers will contact you to provide an estimate of the market value of your Chinese furniture. If you are considering selling your piece of Asian art, our specialists will also guide you through the various alternatives available to obtain the best possible price for your work, taking into account market trends and the specific features of each object.
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Frequently asked questions
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What factors influence the value of a piece of Chinese furniture?The value of a piece of Chinese furniture depends primarily on its age, provenance, condition, and rarity. Furniture dating from before 1911 (the end of the Qing Dynasty) is generally more sought after, as is furniture crafted using exceptional techniques such as lacquerwork or carved wood. The quality of the craftsmanship and the authenticity of the regional style are also key factors in determining value.
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How can I get a free appraisal of my Chinese furniture at Auctie's?Simply fill out our online form with information and photos of your piece of furniture. An expert or certified auctioneer from our team will contact you to provide a free estimate of your item’s market value, with no obligation on your part. You’ll receive a response within 48 hours.
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What is the price range for Chinese furniture at auction?Chinese furniture varies widely in price depending on its type and period. A pair of 20th-century armchairs can be worth between €100 and €105,000, while a 19th-century carrying cabinet can fetch between €400 and €380,000. More modest pieces, such as certain architectural elements, range in price from €50 to €29,000.
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Is this a good time to sell a piece of Chinese furniture?Yes, the market for antique Chinese furniture remains vibrant, particularly for pieces dating from before 1911 and those showcasing exceptional craftsmanship. Rare and well-preserved pieces easily find buyers among collectors worldwide. Our experts can advise you on current market opportunities when you request an appraisal.
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How does the sale of Chinese furniture work at Auctie's?Auctie's supports you from the free appraisal through to the auction. After our experts have appraised your furniture, we organize its sale at auction, taking into account market trends and the specific characteristics of your item. We guide you through every step to ensure you get the best possible price.
