A Pair of Chinese Horseshoe-Back Armchair with Rattan Seats

This late Qing Dynasty pair of round-back chairs is from Shandong, China, and was 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. Each chair is fitted with a finely woven rattan seat, providing flexible comfort while adding a subtle natural texture to the restrained wooden frame. 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...