Shanghai, circa 1890

This stylish pair of chairs was produced in Shanghai towards the end of the nineteenth century. The design is quite plain, almost contemporary, compared to many similar chairs but this pair still have the classic headrail overhanging curved side posts and subtly 'S' shaped backrest - features that are so distinctive of Chinese yoke-back chairs. The seats are generous, with the central panels fitted flush with the outer frames. The original black lacquer finish has largely worn to show the paler, more natural colour of the elm wood below, but traces still remain on the backrests. Sold as a pair, the price shown is for the two chairs.