By Ellen Tang | Jan 20, 2010
Huanghuali furniture is to die for
It is said that in the past, a Huanghuali furniture was so precious that people killed and were killed over it.
The most valuable Huanghuali originated from the Hainan Island. The wood was usually exported as a gift to the Chinese emperor. So treasured was it that the Emperor only gave it to the imperial family and those who were victorious in war.
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From left to right: Huanghuali classic coffer with 3 drawers, writing desk with 5 drawers and Kang table with ball legs.
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While we know that good quality wood is always sought after for furniture, the Huanghuali is favoured despite its high cost. Said to be one of the most precious types of wood, the beautiful, heavy and robust Huanghuali is the kind that lasts a lifetime.
"Huanghuali has always been known among Chinese furniture enthusiasts for its rarity and quality,” says Jenny Hii, the gallery manager of Tomlinson Collection.
So what makes Huanghuali furniture so special?
Rare beauty
The Huanghuali is a slow-growing tree. A twelve-inch trunk takes about 100 years to grow.
In ancient times, only highly-skilled craftsmen were allowed to make furniture from the wood because of its rarity. It is also difficult to find large pieces of the Huanghuali because the tree trunk often curls and twists as it grows. Therefore, furniture made from a single large piece of the wood is rare.
According to Chinese Culture Master Wang Shi Xiang, “the color of Huanghuali is perfect – neither too subdued nor too showy, and its grain – which at times can be quite distinct – is very varied.”
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From left to right: Huanghuali compound cabinets, Huanghuali screen, Huanghuali Medicine Cabinet inlay with Burlwood.
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The value of Huanghuali appreciates over time. “A piece of Huanghuali furniture bought in the 1950’s can increase by 110% in value today,” claims Loo Yee Antique Collection owner William Low. “However, it is advisable that only people who are deeply fond of the Huanghuali beauty to endow in such pieces, as it requires a lot of knowledge and experience in antique investment,” he adds.
It is little wonder then that the wood is favoured by many an antique connoisseur.
The finest Huanghuali has a translucent and shimmery surface. The wood’s intriguing abstract-figured pattern is also what makes it so highly prized.
*Email us (contents@starproperty.my) if you have any interesting decor & design ideas to feature.
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The Tomlinsun Collection
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+603 4257 7228/+603 2283 2196 | Fax: +603 4257 7822/+603 2283 2181 |
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tomlinsun@tomlinsun-collection.com |
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B1, Wisma Tomlinsun, One Ampang Business Ave, Jalan Ampang Utama 1/2, 68000 Ampang Jaya
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