Antique Asian Furniture

Authenticating antique Asian furniture begins with the lacquer. On a genuine old piece, the surface shows a fine, even network of craquelure, a depth of colour that cannot be replicated by modern spraying, and perfect adhesion to the wooden substrate. Chinese lacquerwork of the 18th and 19th centuries is often identified by its coromandel technique — polychrome incised decoration — or by gilded relief motifs on a black ground. Fittings in brass or wrought iron should carry an oxidation patina fully consistent with the piece's stated age.

Japanese antique furniture, from the classic tansu chest to the small travelling cabinet known as a haribako, is characterised by native timbers — keyaki (zelkova), cryptomeria, paulownia — and hand-hammered iron hardware. An authentic Korean piece, whether a bandaji blanket chest or a nong stacking cabinet, is recognisable by its solid proportions, natural elm grain and brass fittings cut into geometric or floral patterns. Be cautious of recent reproductions: their fittings are screwed rather than pegged, and the wood shows no natural wear at contact points or edges. Explore our listings of Japanese tansu chests and Korean elm cabinets to compare authentic examples side by side.

In terms of budget, a small 19th-century Japanese storage chest can be acquired from a few hundred euros, while a large Qing-dynasty lacquered cabinet or a signed tansu may reach several thousand euros depending on the quality of the lacquer and the rarity of the decoration. Documented provenance — an old invoice, a gallery label, a past auction record — adds meaningful value. Always check the condition of hinges, drawer runners and lacquer panels; well-executed restoration does not necessarily diminish a piece's desirability, but undisclosed repairs should be flagged before purchase.

On Antiquités en France, every piece of antique Asian furniture is listed by a verified professional dealer who can supply detailed photographs, exact dimensions and full provenance information. You may also wish to explore our antique desks and writing furniture for secretaires and bureaux with East Asian influence. Contact any dealer directly — they are best placed to advise on shipping, condition and authenticity before you commit to a purchase.