Pair of Qing dynasty chairs. China, late 19th-early 20th century.

Pair of Qing dynasty chairs. China, late 19th-early 20th century.
Carved wood.
It shows signs of use and wear. One of them needs restoration on a crossbeam.
Measurements: 95 x 45 x 40,5 cm.

The uniqueness of this pair of Qing dynasty chairs lies in the decorativeness of their backs. Openwork forms typical of Chinese architecture flank a carefully carved central plate representing palace scenes. The legs of the furniture are embellished with grecate motifs.

Chairs first appeared in China in the form of portable chairs used by commanders on the battlefield. Their use spread rapidly in domestic life, used by all classes and sectors of society. By the early Ming dynasty, various styles had been developed and little changed for several hundred years. In a society as hierarchical as China's, different styles of chair were associated with different ranks of society.