HOT ! Pair of Elm Shanxi Chairs

Shanxi, circa 1880

This beautiful pair of chairs dates from the late 19th century. They were produced in Shanxi province and made from elm wood, with a lovely colour and patina formed through use. The style is quite distinctive of the later Qing period, with a stylised scrolling effect on the arms and a fairly square, angular design rather than flowing curves. The backrests curve backwards and incorporate a simple, panelled decoration. The legs are supported with stretchers that move upwards from the footrest to the back stretcher in a design referred to in Chinese as \'bubugao\' (literally \'step higher) - a feature meant to denote the high rank of the sitter, as the term was originally linked to the promotion of an official. With a distinctive, more contemporary look than most of the antique chairs we see, these would make a real statement set as a pair in a hallway or reception room. Sold as a pair, the price shown is for the two chairs.