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Late Qing Dynasty Hongmu Armchairs

Offered by: Mayfair Gallery

Description
Late Qing Dynasty Hongmu Armchairs
Chinese, Early 20th Century
Height 81.5cm, width 74cm, depth 53.5cm

This pair of carved Chinese hongmu or rosewood armchairs date from the late Qing Dynasty, and combine extravagance and opulence with style and refinement. These thrones are adorned with mythological motifs, typical of this period, the major decoration here being these dragons, both above and below the panelled seat. The twisting bodies of the backrest and the arms, the curving forms of the serpents, are entirely free-standing, with no other support, and are placed upon a perfectly flat panelled seat, creating a pleasing contrast between the curved and orthogonal elements. The ends of the arms constitute the most striking areas: a pair of large and skilfully carved, open-mouthed dragon heads, flanking the sitter. Below, there is a frame with swirling clouds and dragons, this time carved in low relief: such that the multiple tiers of the chairs each exhibit different but harmonious manners of sculpture.

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	1900-1919
Materials:	Hongmu, Rosewood.
Creation Date:	Early 20th Century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Dealer Reference #:	13438
Incollect Reference #:	571270

Dimensions

W.	29.13 in;	H.	32.09 in;	D.	21.06 in;
W.	74 cm;	H.	81.5 cm;	D.	53.5 cm;

Message from Seller:

Mayfair Gallery is a leading gallery in the field of art and antiques, holding a large collection of unique pieces for sale. The breadth of the gallery’s collection is wide, and includes items from a range of periods, styles and geographical origins, as well as works by famous artists and craftsmen. The main focus of the gallery’s collection is, however, on items produced during the 19th and early 20th century.