Wooden furniture crafted using classical Xianyou techniques. [Photo/fujian-szwhg.chaoxing.com]

The art of making Xianyou classical furniture originated in Xianyou county, Putian, Fujian province, in the Northern Song Dynasty (960-1127). It was listed among the fourth batch of China's national-level intangible cultural heritage (ICH) items as a representative project in the traditional craftsmanship category.

Xianyou's modern classical craft furniture cleverly combines traditional Chinese painting, carving, and furniture-making techniques, continuing and improving upon classic styles from the Ming and Qing dynasties (1644-1911).

Xianyou classical furniture employs carving techniques such as flat, round, transparent, hollowed, and emblematic carving, showcasing the rustic charm of knife marks and wood grain textures. It boasts a wide variety of elegant styles, high durability, and meticulous carvings, giving it practical, aesthetic, and collectible value.

Currently, the Xianyou classical craft furniture industry boasts over 3,000 craft enterprises and more than 70,000 employees. Numerous specialized towns, villages, and streets dedicated to wood carving and classical furniture production have emerged, generating an annual output value of over two billion yuan ($282.76 million).

Xianyou is one of China's largest wood carving production bases and one of the three major production areas for redwood classical furniture. Its products are popular in Europe, America, and Southeast Asia.
With its unique design style and craftsmanship, Xianyou classical craft furniture has nurtured numerous well-known brands and trademarks, cultivating a unique regional economic industry.

The Chinese National Arts and Crafts Society bestowed upon Xianyou the title of "Capital of Chinese Classical Craft Furniture", recognizing it as a driving force in local economic development, alongside Suzhou, Guangdong, and Beijing.