A Pair of Chinese Horseshoe-Back Armchair (Set of 2)

This late Qing Dynasty pair of round-back chairs are from Shandong, China and were made from " Yang Mu" wood. The closest English approximation is Cypress Wood. They both feature a beautifully aged original patina. The horseshoe-shaped back was carved from one piece of wood that was soaked in water and bent to its current form. An integrated footrest gives extra strength. The same technique was used to produce the legs. The wood is sturdy, lightweight and resistant to insects. It is not easily carved so the beauty of the chair comes from its form, not its decoration. The finish was originally covered in dark oxblood lacquer (actual oxblood dissolved in tree sap). Over time, the lacquer coating has been rubbed off from use, creating a visually interesting two-tone effect. The chairs are completely natural, just finished in beeswax. Chairs of this type were considered very humble and practical and used both inside and outside the home. Price for pair.