A refined late Qing Chinese yokeback side chair in ebonized yùmù (elm), the serpentine top rail framing an open back centered by a square floating panel intricately carved with a pair of archaistic ritual bronzes—a ding and a gui—each raised on stylized stands. Gracefully pierced scroll spandrels connect the panel to the stiles, lending lightness to the robust frame.
The seat features a floating panel secured by three underside cleats, a hallmark of traditional Chinese joinery. Raised on square-section legs joined by double stretchers, the design balances understated elegance with sturdy, functional construction.
While inspired by 17th-century literati furniture, this example is more conservatively dated to the late Qing to early Republic period, circa 1880–1915, due to its provincial Northern workshop origins and ebonized elm construction. The darkened surface and honest wear create a rich, understated presence that harmonizes with both traditional and contemporary interiors.
Ready to bring a quiet, scholarly presence to your home.
📚 Collector’s Note
Zitan attributions are common on dark Chinese furniture, but true zitan (Pterocarpus santalinus) is exceptionally dense, with minute pores and subtle purplish undertones. Most “blackwood” chairs of this form are in fact elm or other northern hardwoods stained to a deep black, as in this piece. The carved ding and gui motifs symbolize status, ritual propriety, and abundance—auspicious themes that made such chairs a favored choice for scholar’s studios.
Measurements
21.5ʺ W × 16.5ʺ D × 40.5ʺ H
Seat height: 14ʺ
Period: Late Qing to Early Republic (c. 1880–1915)
Origin: China
Materials: Ebonized elm (yùmù)
Condition: Good antique condition with wear consistent with age and use; rich patina to surface; structurally sound. A ring shaped water mark on the seat, very slight, see last photo. Also a small piece is missing on the right side frame around the chair carving of archaic vases.
