Jinsi nanmu: A Tree Species So Precious, So Treasured, that It Is Now Officially a Protected Species Worldwide
The name Jinsi nanmu itself loosely translates to ‘golden silk wood’, and rightly so deserves its name. Why? Firstly, it is a scarce wood exclusive to China and South Asia, and cannot be found elsewhere, and the numbers have depleted tremendously over the years. It is now limited to small clusters of ageing decorative trees at temples, courtyards or parks.
The colour is generally light yellow, with old material being golden-yellow with lavender tint, and the newer material being golden-yellow with green tint. It naturally reflects a gold colour when it is under light, and must never be painted or waxed, for it loses its colour if done so. Its unique strains, the naturally wavy patterns within, make every piece uniquely exquisite.
Belonging to the camphor tree family, it has a delicately light and medicinal fragrance, pleasant and invigorating to the senses. More importantly, this wood is extremely durable, resistant to wear, decay, change of shape, climate change and very sturdy. Which is precisely why the Chinese Qing and Ming dynasties started using it to make imperial furniture and pillars in the palaces–furniture that’s fit for a king. This is what the majestic dragon throne is made of.
And since it’s so rare and new material can hardly be acquired anymore, the only way to get our hands on these ultra-extravagant pieces is to purchase refurbished ornamental furniture pieces. Experts have to meticulously yet thoroughly dismantle old pieces of jinsi nanmu furniture and make new ones, to prolong the life of the invaluable wood. Every move is carefully planned and calculated to maximise and ensure efficiency in what it is used for and prevent wastages of the highly-prized material.
One such item at Aureo Gallery is the Stand Clock made of jinsi nanmu, measuring at 32cm width x 189cm height and 50cm in diameter. It is a refined piece so profoundly outstanding, its beautiful structures evoke a sense of tranquillity, the smooth and delicate touch you would appreciate, the minimalist silhouettes so sophisticated, you cannot help but to fall in love with it in all its grandeur.
Source: Wikipedia, https://daydaynews.cc/ & https://inf.news/