Huanghuali Folding Horseshoe-back Armchair, Jiaoyi

Late Ming dynasty
Horseshoe-back Armchair
Cocobolo (Huanghuali), Damascened Iron
71.2 x 67.2 x h.102.8 cm

• The chair boasts a horseshoe-shaped backrest crowning a simple splat, framed by cusped and beaded spandrels.
• S-curved and circular-section arm posts support the armrests, running through the seat frame to become the front legs, enhanced with shaped spandrels and transitioning to a square profile at the bend and pivot of the legs.
• For added durability, damascened iron braces with a 'bamboo-and-vase' motif unite the armrests and posts, complemented by ruyi-shaped braces within the armrest curve. The front seat rail is elegantly accented with cusped beading.
• A pivoting footrest, upheld by short cabriole legs, features damascened ironwork depicting two rhinoceros horns encircling a coin. Damascened iron mounts fortify each joint, some embellished with intricate scrolling vine patterns.

Reference and image source: Sotheby's Hong Kong Limited