Excellent pair of larger size antique Ju wood armchairs in Tai-Shi-Yi (Grand-Master) style with fine bone and yellow boxwood inlays with fine workmanship and beautiful natural wood patina. With small repairs in inlay and the corner of feet.

This pair of well built and impressive armchairs has the most beautiful cuts of Ju wood with fine grain. The subject manner describe peasants/hermits or immortal elite's leisurely peasant life. One chair is carved and inlaid on the back rest with two figures-one older male and a younger male holding a flower branch. Both seem to be engaged in conversation and the appreciation of the potted flower plant in front of them with two dragonflies and clouds above. The panel above is carved with another robed and bearded figure chatting with two flying birds among heavenly clouds. The other chair is also carved and inlaid with an older male and a young boy conversing while the foreground shows an empty cage and a gift basket while two goose are out in the open space. Above the figures, there is an auspicious flying crane with extended wings and clouds, witnessing the activity below. Such wonderful inlaid subject is not only poetically delightful, it also stands out among other more commonly seen motives with either moral-teaching or standard patterns. The footrests at the bottom front of the chairs show natural progression of being used and worn which can not be pretended by simple cuts of wood shape. The inlay work is created on the hardwood surface. The rattan on the chair seats have been replaced. These large armchairs date to the Mid-Qing period, possibly from the early 19th century. Price upon request.

Dimensions (each chair): 25"w x 19 1/2"d x 37"h

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