A Huanghuali Square Stool

Late Ming Dynasty
Square Stool
Cocobolo (Huanghuali)

• The upper section of the frame, exemplifying standard carpentry with mitre, mortise, and tenon joints, showcases prominent tenons along its shorter sides. Supporting the structure are two horizontal braces beneath the frame, and it is perched on legs with ornamental beaded edges, rounded externally and squared internally.
• These legs are doubly tenoned, ensuring a secure connection to the frame. Echoing the beaded motif, the cloud-shaped apron is expertly tongue-and-grooved into the legs and affixed under the seat frame. Furthermore, the frame's integrity is reinforced by four hump-backed stretchers, featuring elegant ridge mouldings, all mitred and tenoned into the legs for robust construction.

Reference and image source: Sotheby's Hong Kong Limited