明式家具用料与结构的剖析

Some Unique Features of Ming Dynasty Furniture

明式家具在用材上大部分选用的是重量适宜、材质均匀致密而且坚韧、色泽柔和纹理美观、切削面光滑、耐久性较强的散孔材。在家具结构上,根据各零部件接合部位的要求不同,设计的各种榫接合形式是合乎科学道理的。且加工制作精度高,配合严密,结构强度好。这些说明明式家具在当时无论在造型上或者在用料、结构和制作工艺上都达到了相当高的水平。

An investigation into the unique features of typical Ming dynasty furniture was made with special references to the species of wood used and structural design. It was found that most pieces of furniture were made of diffuse-porous hardwood with relative toughness, higher densities, and even and fine textures.The wood use'd usually bad a warm color and attractive grain patterns, and their cutting faces easily produced smooth surfaces. In addition, the wood used was relatively durable against biological degradation and mechanical injuries. Different kinds of tongue and groove joints are illustrated with figures explaining their scientific rationalities. In regards to their manufacturing qualities, most pieces of Ming dynasty furniture were assembled w'ith precision and not only were they good looking in appearance but also very reliable in strength. In short,the furniture manufacturing techniques of the Ming dynasty were considerably well developed.