Manuscripts and drawings from esteemed researchers Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

In a momentous occasion this May, the Ou's Traditional Woodwork Exhibition Hall in Zhongshan, Guangdong province, has unveiled its inaugural exhibition, Seat of Honor - Ancient Chinese Seating Furniture From the Collection of Liuyu Study, marking a significant milestone for traditional Chinese woodworking enthusiasts.

Dedicated to preserving and showcasing the intricate artistry and cultural significance of traditional Chinese woodworking, the museum serves as a nonprofit institution, offering a platform for the public to delve into the rich heritage of Chinese craftsmanship.

Ou Jinze, the visionary behind the exhibition hall and the driving force behind the esteemed furniture brand Ous, expressed his deep admiration for ancient craftsmen's wisdom and skills, emphasizing the importance of promoting the beauty of traditional Chinese culture to a wider audience.

Spanning two expansive floors, the museum boasts a captivating array of artifacts across themed displays, with the first floor spanning over 2,200 square meters dedicated to unraveling the historical tapestry of ancient Chinese furniture. The thematic exhibitions, such as The Story of Wood, provide insight into the profound connection between the Chinese people and wood.

The extensive book collection from Wang Shixiang's personal study. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Ascending to the second floor, visitors are greeted by a treasure trove of over 5,000 artifacts, including an extraordinary collection from renowned collectors and scholars. Noteworthy highlights include Wang Shixiang's personal book collection, alongside rare manuscripts and drawings from esteemed researchers Liang Sicheng and Lin Huiyin, offering a comprehensive view of ancient Chinese furniture heritage.

Curated by Deng Bin, a distinguished faculty member at Jiangnan University's School of Design and a revered scholar of ancient Chinese arts and crafts, the exhibition Seat of Honor showcases nearly 50 exquisitely crafted chairs from Huang Dingzhong's Liuyu Study. Each chair, a masterpiece in its own right, represents a blend of diverse styles and materials, embodying unparalleled craftsmanship and artistic finesse that epitomize the essence of ancient Chinese furniture.

The inaugural themed exhibition, Seat of Honor - Ancient Chinese Seating Furniture from the Collection of Liuyu Study has officially opened its doors. [Photo provided to chinadaily.com.cn]

Deng underscores the pivotal role of chairs in the evolution of Chinese furniture, their symbolic significance and historical importance, making this exhibition a groundbreaking exploration into the captivating world of ancient Chinese seating furniture.