Interview with Margaret Currivan

Margaret Currivan, the owner of Forgotten Shanghai, has been collecting Asian antiques for over 10 years. She has traveled all over Asia to seek unique pieces to add to her showroom collection.

Q: What inspired you to bring Chinese antique furniture to San Francisco?

Margaret: I lived in Asia for two years and fell in love with Asian furniture craftsmanship. What amazed me the most was the details. Pieces are typically constructed with tongue and groove rarely using any nails, yet they can last for hundreds of years.

Q: The collection at Forgotten Shanghai is a mix and match of the old and new, how do you select what pieces to bring into Forgotten Shanghai?

Margaret: I just FOLLOW MY SENSES! I buy what I like, and luckily most people like them also. I visualize the pieces that I am interested in and see whether they fit into the collection. It's not all glamorous, many times I travel to dark and desolate warehouses to uncover real hidden gems.

Q: Do you have a favorite design or style?

Margaret: Hmm, that's a hard one. I have to say the designs from Shanxi province is one of my favorites. Shanxi designs are simple but exquisite at the same time. They have less extravagant engravings but more inlays of stone and porcelain which work well with Western styles.

Q: How do you ensure the authenticity of each piece you buy?

Margaret: Since I buy most of the pieces in their original condition, it is easier to discern their authenticity based on their existing materials, patina, joints, etc. Also, I always follow my intuition, usually you will sense if something is off.

Q: Any advice on how people can incorporate Asian designs into their space?

Margaret: Asian furniture is versatile with it's simplicity and style. Asian designs are TIMELESS, they can be incorporated into modern designs effortlessly. Accessories like silk is a great addition to any space. It can really soften up the hard edges of the furniture and bring texture to a design. Also, a blend of old and new style is what makes a well-balanced design.