Determining quality in Chinese antique style furniture (What is Quality?)

A few interesting examples and baselines which can be used when making an assessment of quality. You will need to click each photo to see the enlarged version and associated comments.

Poor to low quality

This piece speaks for itself. Particularly evident is fitting which uses the lowest quality of materials. Carvings are shallow and lack detail.

Average to above average

This reproduction piece was quality controlled to some extent and it shows through in smaller details. I would not however place this piece at top quality but rather slightly above average.

Higher quality

This piece is definitely of a higher level of craftsmanship, particularly evident in the materials and workmanship.