Horseshoe Qilin Mythical Arm Chair $1299

Ming dynasty (18th century) faithful reproduction horseshoe armchair handmade in huanghuali, which is an old rosewood timber: denser, harder, with a grain more expressive than rosewood. All wood half-lapped pressure peg joints make up the horseshoe back rest. The tenons stabilize the joint while the peg locks the two pieces together. S-shaped side posts support the horseshoe while three piece arch-shaped support aprons under seat are carved in a feminine curve. The armrests end with a scrolled hand grip.

On the openwork carved splat, Chinese cultural mythical creature “qi lin” with tongue darting, mouth agape, mane climaxed, among cloud and flame motif. It has been historically said, the emperor proclaimed the qilin as a magical creature of the deities, whose rare capture signaled the greatness of the emperor’s power of reign. The qilin takes on the figure of many animals including the scales of a fish, eyes of a dragon, antlers of a deer antelope, hooves of an ox, legs of a giraffe, tail of a lion, and enveloped in fire.

With magnificent finish, grain and aesthetics, this horseshoe armchair is an excellent example of traditional centuries-old Chinese craftsmanship and joinery wizardry. Dimensions: 26″ x 22″ x 42″H. In-stock and ready for immediate delivery at the Concord store. Regularly $1,599. Sale $1,299.