There are numerous types of chicken wing wood, each with its own unique history and cultural significance. The term "chicken wing" has long been associated with elegance and status, especially among merchants and aristocrats who valued its beauty. In ancient times, this wood was considered rare, likely because large trees were scarce. Over time, it gained a spiritual reputation, thanks in part to the praise from scholars and literati. I've often wondered if the name was a clever play on words—after all, there are many references to "chickens" in Ming and Qing dynasty artifacts, and such symbols usually carry deep meaning. This makes me believe that the name “chicken wing†is not just a description but holds symbolic value.
Chicken wing wood can be broadly categorized into three main types:
Old chicken wing wood was primarily used during the Ming Dynasty and early Qing Dynasty for furniture. Distinguishing old chicken wing wood is relatively straightforward. First, its weight is notably light, even lighter than some hardwoods like eucalyptus. When you lift a piece of old chicken wing wood furniture, you can tell right away. Its color tends to be ash-gray, especially after being stripped of wax over time. When polished, it becomes slightly lighter, revealing the distinct grain pattern. However, the texture isn't as pronounced as one might expect, and it's often mistaken for ironwood by those unfamiliar with it. A simple way to identify it is by looking at the direction of the grain relative to the nails—it should run at a 90-degree angle. Old chicken wing wood is flexible and suitable for general carving, though fine details are rare in Ming-style pieces, which highlights its natural limitations.
New chicken wing wood emerged during the mid-to-late Qing Dynasty, when the supply of old chicken wing wood began to dwindle. This type is slightly heavier and has a brownish hue with a yellowish undertone. It’s more visually appealing to the average person compared to the older variety. However, its texture is coarser, making it harder to carve. As a result, carvings made from new chicken wing wood tend to be rougher. The origin of this wood is varied, with multiple sources and quality levels. It's important to know where it comes from, as misidentification can lead to confusion. If you're not an expert, it's best to avoid getting too deep into the specifics, or you might end up misled.
Fake chicken wing wood didn’t exist in the past, but now it’s becoming more common. Most of these imitations come from Africa and are not the same species as the real ones. While they may look beautiful at first glance, they lack the subtlety of genuine chicken wing wood. The color is overly dramatic, mixing black and yellow in a gaudy way. It's also much heavier, similar to mahogany, and emits an unpleasant odor—so strong that it's known locally as “seeing Guangwu†in Cantonese, “Tokyo wood†in Zhejiang, and “Shatongmu†in Suzhou. Any furniture made from this fake material is clearly not authentic.
The history of chicken wing wood spans at least five centuries, cherished by scholars and sometimes misunderstood by traders. Chicken wing wood furniture is like an eccentric character—unpredictable and full of surprises. Despite its rich history, the exact number of varieties and their characteristics remain unclear. Understanding the physical properties of chicken wing wood is essential when identifying antique Ming and Qing furniture, as it helps avoid major mistakes in authentication. Whether you’re a collector or simply curious, knowing the differences between old, new, and fake chicken wing wood can make all the difference.
The apron sink front protrudes slightly from the supporting cabinets, eliminating countertops that cause users to lean forward and over-stress. At the same time, this practical design helps prevent cabinet damage. The apron sink is easy to install following this video. Made of high quality stainless steel, this handmade sink is not only anti-corrosion and anti-scratch,but also strong and durable.Its Modern and stylish appearance fits into any style of kitchen.
American Style Farmhouse Sink,Farmhouse Apron Sink,,Stainlesss Steel Apron Sink, Double Bowl Apron Kitchen Sink,Country Sink, Flat Apron Front Sink
JIANGMEN MEIAO KITCHEN AND BATH CO.,LTD , https://www.meiaogroup.com