A Pair of Chinese Low Tables

A pair of Chinese elm wood stands featuring rectangular floating-panel tops, molded edges, and simple round-post legs. Furniture with round-posted frame elements is derived from early Chinese architecture. Indeed, all Chinese furniture is thought to be derived from houses (round posts) or storage boxes (square frame members). The warm, richly patinated wood reveals beautiful natural grain, while the gently curved aprons add a subtle decorative touch to their understated design.With their low profiles and rustic character, these versatile stands can serve as display platforms for sculptures, pottery, or other decorative objects. Their timeless simplicity makes them equally at home in traditional and contemporary interiors. It is possible that these unusually low and sturdy stands were actually steps to a pair of beds.