A Chinese Folding Horseshoe Back Armchair Jiaoyi

Lot Details & Additional Photographs

20th century, likely jichimu or huanghuali wood, fashioned with brass mountings, the round top rail continuing in a curve to the arms terminating in out swept ends, each arm supported by the hooked upper extension of the front leg suspending a long shaped spandrel, the back carved splat with reticulated reserve featuring a qilin and clouds, a soft mat seat with a front stretcher, the hinged round section legs terminating in rectangular base stretchers, the footrest mounted with a central brass plaque of three conjoined lozenges, raised on a shaped apron and small feet.

Purchased from Tomlinson Antique House, Bangkok in 1990s.

The folding horseshoe back armchair was traditionally used by members of the Imperial family as well as by the wealthy and powerful, serving as a symbol of prestige and social rank. This style of chair is referenced as, “the first folding chair,” highlighting its significance as the seat of highest honor in a public setting. When crafted for Imperial use, they often functioned as portable thrones, and as such, are featured in Ming and Qing dynasty court paintings as the seats for emperors and empresses. These chairs were crafted from a range of materials, including luxurious hardwoods, exemplified by the one offered here.

Very good condition; some darkening of brass fittings.