A PAIR OF HUANGHUALI LOW-BACKED ARMCHAIRS, MEIGUIYI LATE MING – EARLY QING DYNASTY |

each with the hard-caned seat framed by a straight crestrail above vertical spindles sectioned by interlaced ring struts, the straight armrests with similar spindles and struts, continuing to the front posts, the seat frame supported on a latticework apron with vertical struts, the side aprons of similar design, the legs joined with stretchers

Hei Hung-Lu, Hong Kong.

Overall good condition with small chips to the tips of the legs. There are also expected light bruises and occasional surface scratches. As typical for its type, the cane seats are probably replacements.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Known as meiguiyi (rose chair), chairs of this type are appreciated for their delicate design and light construction, which made them ideal for both indoor and outdoor use. The present pair is notable for its imitation of bamboo, as seen in the spindle back and arms and the interlocking circles, which simulate bamboo struts. The use of the fine and densely-grained huanghuali to imitate the modest bamboo, was popular in the Ming and Qing dynasties. Bamboo was celebrated for its ability to bend but not break, and its qualities were likened to those of the perfect gentleman. A similar chair is illustrated in Sarah Handler, Ming Furniture in the Light of Chinese Architecture, Beijing, 2005, p. 129; a pair in the Minneapolis Institute of Arts, is illustrated in Robert D. Jacobsen and Nicholas Grindley, Classical Chinese Furniture, Minneapolis, 1999, pl. 16; another was sold in these rooms, 30th October 1991, lot 363; and a further pair was sold in our New York rooms, 9th/10th October 1987, lot 426.