Anthony Lee
Just Anthony
379 Upper Paya Lebar Road. Tel: 6283 4782/22
www.justanthony.com
Business established: More than 30 years
Niche: Chinese antique furniture and Asian-inspired
home accessories.
Anthony Lee's first foray into the furniture industry was trading Peranakan furniture. But as Peranakan pieces became rarer, he ventured into importing Chinese furniture, antiques and artefacts. Today, his business - Just Anthony - offers Chinese antique furniture, door panels, ceramic pots and accessories - including baskets, containers and carvings. Just Anthony also carries a range of classic reproduction furniture, carvings, stone statues, lamps, screens, hand-painted silk wall coverings and Vietnamese lacquer ware. Specific furniture needs can also be met by sourcing and customised services.
AL: You're not just buying a piece of furniture, you're gaining a piece of history. The style of Chinese antique furniture differs according to the various periods and provinces it comes from. Sometimes it even reflects the culture and characteristics of the people who lived during that period.
TF: Is Chinese antique furniture still a niche market?
AL: Yes. It doesn't appeal to the masses, as some don't like using old furniture. But interest has grown over the years especially among the younger generation.
TF: How do silk wall coverings compare to wallpaper?
AL: Silk wall coverings are hand-painted designs on silk, which are mounted on a paper backing so they can be fixed onto walls similar to wallpaper. But silk wall coverings can be customised, as the design is based on your preferred size. The patterns are not repeated but are continuous so no two silk wall coverings will ever be the same. They are ideal for the dining area and bed headboards, as they can be fixed onto panels. That way you can take them with you wherever you go.
Chinese antique furniture know-how..
- Beware that although antique pieces are made of solid wood, they can still react to changes in humidity - so maintenance is required.
- Always buy a piece because you like the design and are certain you'll keep it for a long time. Don't buy something as an investment - just like artwork - trends are unpredictable.
- If you're drawn to a piece, trust your gut feel and buy it. If you take too long, it might be gone by the time you decide and you can be certain you'll never find another piece like it again.
Posted May 2011
