This pair of armchairs with rounded-spindles is made of quality Ju wood with excellent original patina on the wood surface. Ju wood is a type of southern Chinese elm. Different from the more common northern Chinese elm, Ju wood is denser with more delicate grain since it came from the more tropical area, and is easily confused with the northern elm. Ju wood was a lumber often used in Chinese furniture pieces along the Jiang-Zhe area near Shanghai and Ningbo. Some of the Chinese furniture made of Ju wood have been dated to the Ming Dynasty. Ju wood furniture made in this period of time is no less refine than those made of more expensive Chinese hardwood such as Huanghuali from the same period of time. Ju wood furniture pieces from the 17th century period often embed the literati style with few examples could be found today.
Chairs with spindle design with arms are less commonly seen than those made without the arms. These armchairs are generously made in size with good craftsmanship and sophisticated wooden joinery. The foot rests are nice and naturally worn. They make beautiful presentation in a home with its classical look. 18-19th century.
Dimensions for each chair: 21 3/4" L x 17 5/8" W x 37 3/4" H