For a discussion on the present table by Tian Jiaqing, see op cit., 1998, pp. 16-17, where the author mentions that the table was used at the Imperial court, and has been worked so that the finish imitated the qualities and appearance of zitan, known as "zitan finishing". Only an experienced craftsman of the highest order would be capable to produce a table of such refinement taking great care in the design, construction, and selection and use of materials. Interestingly, many of the craftsmen working at the imperial workshops were from Suzhou and worked in the Suzhou tradition. He stresses that Imperial furniture was made in jichimu , and explains that it is a hardwood that was used more regularly when the reserves of zitan and huanghuali had become depleted. Where zitan wood has a deep, rich colour and fine grain, Jichimu, known as 'chicken-wing wood', is characterized by a golden luster with a light feathery grain.

The table compares closely to another small zitan table with bridle joints and floral motifs illustrated in Classic Chinese Furniture of the Qing Dynasty, no. 80. Another Ming-style table of note and stylistic comparison is illustrated by G. Ecke, Chinese Domestic Furniture, Rutland, Vermont and Tokyo, 1962, pl. 73, no. 35