The Cultural Institute of Macao, Museum of Macao have chosen to organize an exhibition depicting furniture from Macau. As Macao is known for being a territory of cross-cultural interchange between east and west our aim here is to point out characteristics of two cultures which are mirrored in the furniture on display.Throughout history Chinese furniture has been governed by rigid standards thus retaining an appearance of archaic austerity. The design and ornament, the formation of lines and cubic forms have created an unchanged classical shape. It is this purity, strength and the flawless polish of these pieces that constitute their esthetic appeal.In Macao Chinese furniture has undergone various influences from western styles thus giving it unique form and composition. It is primarily domestic furniture that illustrates these distinctive features. A move from the more rigid and angular forms which religiously follow the classical order of Chinese furniture to a more ornate composition of details, are the trends that are created by this cross-cultural influence.