This relatively large painting table with splayed legs is in classic Ming style, which is known for simple designs and elegant forms. The ancient Chinese sat on the floor until chairs were introduced in the Tang period (618-907). With this new introduction came drastic changes in furniture. Desks and tables with long legs replaced those with short ones. Painting tables followed suite. They were characterised by the generous size of the tabletop to facilitate painting and calligraphy, and were the most important pieces of furniture in a scholar's studio. Tieli wood is a hardwood from South and Southeast Asia. Common characteristics of 19th century furniture include exceptionally thick wooden members, and complex and meticulously carved decorations.
