In the early periods of Chinese history people sat on mats or low platforms. Furniture such as tables was small and low in keeping with the customs of the day. Over the centuries the chair became more popular and during the Song dynasty (960C.E. – 1279C.E.) the shift from mat to chair was virtually complete.
A consequence of this change in lifestyle was the development and evolution of new types of furniture that had a decorative as well as functional role. Tables were one type of furniture that found a place in this new style of living and a range of different types came into fashion. This rectangular table would have been used to hold the family shrine and items of beauty including porcelain and jade. It could also have served as a writing table. The geometric spandrels are a motif of longevity spirals. The legs finish with inward horse hoof feet.