The Collection
Introducing the exquisite ArchElements collection of classical Chinese window and door panels, a testament to diversity and distinction. Born in 1994, these antiquities likely hail from the illustrious late Qing Dynasty era (1850 - 1911). Our curated selection features unframed and framed panels, lattice panels, and multi-pane panels, offering sizes perfectly suited for interior decor and creative design concepts. Ideal for Asian contemporary design and modern Asian-style decor, each piece in this collection embodies timeless elegance and cultural heritage. Explore the beauty of tradition and innovation with the ArchElements collection.
Provenance + History
Understanding that the panels within the ArchElements collection have been meticulously preserved for over two decades provides a sense of assurance and establishes their provenance, or at least a traceable ownership history. There's a growing fascination with Asian architectural elements and art among collectors and interior designers alike. As time progresses, more homeowners and businesses are integrating these artistic pieces into their architectural and interior design schemes.
The Artisanship
Craftsmanship is at the heart of this collection, featuring exquisite wood carvings and intricate joinery. Highlighting openwork and relief carving techniques, as well as panels blending carving and lattice work, each piece showcases meticulous attention to detail. The joinery methods employed are both complex and precise. Utilizing a variety of regional Asian hardwoods and softwoods, each with its unique color shades and grain patterns, the materials further enhance the beauty and authenticity of these artful creations.
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Unframed Panels
Unframed panels primarily showcase intricate openwork carving techniques. These panels are often utilized for doors and windows, enhancing surroundings by allowing natural light and ventilation while adding aesthetic appeal. Motifs and patterns encompass a diverse range, including floral and plant designs, depictions of figures and immortals, landscapes and dwellings, historical narratives, and geometric motifs. Additionally, themes of decoration extend to portrayals of everyday life, folklore and tales, cultural symbols, fairy tales and legends, as well as poetic and dramatic elements, alongside other ancient artistic expressions.
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Framed Panels
Framed panels feature predominantly openwork carving, along with subtle relief carving techniques, skillfully crafted using frame and panel construction methods. Reflecting a classical Chinese approach to window and door design, these panels are assembled using meticulous mitered and mortise + tenon joints. Each pane is carefully designed with tongues at the outer edges, while the frame pieces are grooved internally to facilitate the common tongue + groove technique. Crafted without the use of glue or nails, this joinery technique enables the panels to float within their frames, accommodating slight expansion and contraction caused by fluctuations in temperature and humidity levels.
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Lattice Panels
Lattice panels feature intricate artisanal techniques that encompass joining and assembly, as well as inserting and carving from solid wood to create the illusion of lattice work. Each panel typically showcases a central carving depicting floral motifs, mythical beasts, dwellings, figures, and other antique patterns, surrounded by a rich tapestry of additional motifs such as trees, flowers, dragons, architectural elements, and various decorative themes.
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Multi-Pane Panels
The multi-pane panels are characterized by their operable or removable panes, featuring vertical wood hinges for easy movement. The center carvings within these panes exhibit intricate craftsmanship, while the joinery displays complexity and precision. Each multi-pane panel is adorned with splendid carvings, incorporating both openwork and relief carving techniques. Expect to find captivating depictions of bats, dragons, floral and animal motifs, as well as figures of common people, surrounded by delicate lattice work techniques such as cracked ice, wind wheels, and endless lines.