|
How to Care Chinese
Antique Furniture |
|
The classical furniture with style of the
Ming and Qing Dynasties all belongs to sound wood with
tongue-groove structure, which is lacquered outside for adorning
and protecting the furniture. Therefore, the performance of wood
and paint determines the requirement for the service and
maintenance of the classical furniture. |
| |
|
Wood is a natural living product, therefore,
wood furniture will "breathe" in response to changes in the
atmosphere. Rapid or extreme fluctuation in temperature,
humidity or direct sunlight may cause cracking, splitting,
and/or warping of the piece. The aim of the custodian, for that
is what we are when we have antique furniture, is to maintain
its good health. Furniture that has been with the family for a
decade or more and not caused concern is unlikely to present
problems providing its past treatment is unchanged. The design
of Chinese furniture has already catered to this behavior of
wood. In particular, a large surface is usually made with
floating panel framed by wood members on four sides. The
floating panel can expand or contract but still has its surface
secure and intact. |
| |
|
Old wood has usually already reached its
critical drying point unlike most new wood. Old wood continues
to change,but with common sense this should not be a problem. If
a repair is necessary at a later date it should involve only
minor adjustments. Strong sunlight can cause fading or other
changes. If you leave objects in a permanent position on the
furniture, uneven fading may also occur. Avoid placing furniture
next to radiators, hot air vents, air conditioners, or open
windows. Do not place hot containers directly onto the surface
of the furniture. |
| |
|
Much damage occurs when objects are moved.
This can be avoided if the item's construction is wholly
understood. Failing that there are a few simple rules that will
help avoid embarrassing moments: Use dry cloth, soft brush or
the brush of a vacuum cleaner to remove dust on the furniture.
If needed, use a dry or mild damp cloth to wipe away dirt or
stains. This is the only cleaning you need for the furniture.
Never use too much water to clean the furniture. A warm and damp
environment accelerates chemical action. Materials which become
chemically unbalanced, such as leather (particularly of the late
nineteenth and early twentieth centuries), paper and textiles
are at risk. The ideal condition for furniture is a stable
atmosphere with relative humidity fluctuations of 40 - 70
percent, and a temperature from 60 - 80 degrees
Fahrenheit.Operating a humidifier or putting a glass of water
inside or underneath the furniture may help to maintain
humidity. follow some simple care rules: |
| |
|
Never dehumidify any real wood pieces. |
| |
|
Use air conditioning with restraint. |
| |
|
Do not place antiques in direct sun light |
| |
|
Do not expose furniture to rapid temperature
changes |
| |
|
Do not place furniture directly in front of
or underneath the vents |
| |
|
Old pieces will show shrinkage but new pieces
may have very dramatic changes. |
| |
|
ood is an organic substance, and each species
of wood has individual characteristics such as color, texture,
and smell. We apply appropriate finishes on each piece with
those characteristics in mind, so the finish and the design of
the wood enhance one another and work together harmoniously. |
