HOT ! Pair of Decorative Southern Official Chairs

Shanxi, circa 1860

These unusual chairs, with a straight, rounded top rail and decorative carved apron, are from Shanxi province in central China, made from elm. The turned central posts supporting the arms are a detail rarely seen in Chinese furniture and are in contrast with the plain, curved back rest. The relief carvings on the panel below the seat show a geometrical, scrolling pattern, while the lower apron and spandrels around the four sides of each chair feature further carving that adds to the unique, ornate style. The dark lacquer finish is original, worn on the seat and other sections to the paler wood underneath. The chairs feature a footrest and supporting braces between the legs that step higher from front to back in the \'bubugao\' style that was indicative of high status. One of the more unusual pairs of \'Southern Official\' chairs we have seen, these would make a real focal point in a hallway or reception room. Sold as a pair, the price shown is for the two chairs.