Simple but splendid, natural but complex. It is hard to believe that such contrary concepts can be harmoniously united in one space.

But that is why Tibetan style has become such a craze in recent months. Since it first appeared on the international market in the 1990s, its exotic and mysterious magic has attracted more and more people.

The first surprise is that there is such little variety in traditional Tibetan furniture. As Tibetans like to hunker on the ground, they have no chairs, sofa nor benches. In their homes, there are only three kinds of furniture: chests, cabinets and tables. And they tend to be square in shape. Instead of putting items into chests, Tibetans often hang daily articles on walls.

Almost all furniture is covered with bright coloured drawing and made out of pine. Traditional Tibetan chests are usually handmade, often without a nail. As they are massive and durable, the furniture is often used for scores of years and passed down from generation to generation.

Decorations on such furniture are unique. Coloured painting, jewelry tessellation and wood engraving are often applied.

Among such skills, hide tessellation is regarded as the most striking: With 1/3 or 1/5 of the cover laid in square-shaped leopard fur, the dark coloured furniture looks rather wild yet extraordinary.

Patterns on the furniture usually carry a religious touch. Complicated patterns like the god of longevity and eight propitious animals are popular designs. Clouds, flowers and geometric designs are also common.

Tibetans like red, gold and brown. You can find such colours everywhere at their homes: walls, furniture, carpets and even ceilings. And that is why people often like the bright and florid style of Tibetan style.

Where to go

Zang Han Zhai

Recommendation: Tibetan carpet, tapestry and jewelry boxes

Address: Gongti East Street, Chaoyang District

Tel: 65018258

www.carpetfriend.com

Shi Ji Yi Yuan

Recommendation: Tibetan-style chests and cabinets, Tibetan rugs

Address: Jia 6, Gongti East Street, Chaoyang District 
 
(Beijing Weekend December 19, 2003)