Furniture is like a person—just as humans need health to live long and thrive, furniture also needs proper "health" through maintenance in order to endure the passage of time and remain stylish. While human life has a clear limit, with very few people living beyond 150 years, the lifespan of furniture is less defined. Ancient pieces from the Han, Tang, and Song dynasties still exist today, and even ancient lacquer screens and wooden tables from the Warring States period have been unearthed. Ming Dynasty furniture, some over 500 years old, remains well-preserved, looking as if it were just made. Compared to humans, furniture can be considered to have an extraordinary longevity, which is why it often becomes a cherished heirloom passed down through generations.
However, even the most beautiful furniture is not immune to damage. Natural elements like sunlight, air, and seasonal changes, along with human factors such as moving, placing, cleaning, or dusting, can all cause serious harm if not handled carefully. Those who lack proper knowledge in furniture care risk damaging valuable antique pieces, turning them into something that's no longer worth keeping.
In the following sections, we'll explore seven key aspects of furniture maintenance, discussing the principles, methods, and common mistakes to avoid.
**Maintenance Method 1: Understanding the Nature of Wood**
Just as human health depends on natural balance, furniture maintenance should also respect the nature of the wood. In winter, when northern homes are heated, furniture should be kept away from direct heat sources to prevent excessive drying and cracking. During summer, when rain is common, furniture should be placed away from windows to avoid moisture damage and insect infestation.
Many types of furniture are sensitive to wind, especially those with delicate structures like tables and cabinets. Exposure to drafts can cause warping or cracking due to the expansion and contraction of the wood. Even simple items like camp beds should be moved gently to avoid damage. Furniture should never be placed in one spot for too long. As seasons change, it's important to adjust its position to prevent decay. I've often seen beautifully crafted antiques where one side is pristine, while the other, constantly against the wall, looks worn and damaged—like a beautiful face half-burned by fire, leaving a deep sense of regret.
In short, for people, the nature of furniture is “easily broken if disturbed, and easily damaged if neglected.†For the weather, it’s “only gradual changes are acceptable.†Collectors must adapt to the wood’s needs, ensuring that ancient furniture can be preserved for generations.
“Understanding the wood†is the core concept of furniture maintenance. Here are some practical techniques:
**Maintenance Method 2: Caring for the Desktop**
There's an old saying: “A cold table can’t hold hot tea.†This reflects the importance of temperature control for furniture. For example, stone-topped furniture (such as tables and screens) should not be placed outdoors in winter or in direct sunlight during summer, as sudden temperature changes can cause cracks.
Ancient tables were often protected because of the way people used them. Unlike today, where food and drinks are often left directly on the surface, people in the past used trays to serve meals, protecting the tabletop from spills. If any liquid did get on the surface, it was usually cleaned immediately.
To clean oil stains, you can use alcohol or high-proof liquor. This method is commonly used by older Beijing residents and is effective for maintaining the surface of the furniture.
**Maintenance Method 3: Keep Dry and Adapt to Seasonal Changes**
In regions with significant seasonal shifts, furniture requires special attention. After rainy or dry periods, the climate can quickly change from humid to dry or vice versa. To prevent warping, it's important to open cabinet doors and drawers regularly so the furniture can breathe and adjust to the environment.
However, during colder months, furniture should not be exposed to direct sunlight or drafts. Instead, it should be stored in a cool, dry place. Prolonged exposure to sunlight can damage the wood, causing cracks or warping. The goal is to maintain a balanced level of humidity without exposing the furniture to extreme conditions.
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