Pair of Painted and Lacquered Chinese Yoke Back Armchairs

Featuring a top rail supported by an s-shaped splat, which is comprised of three panels, this fine pair of works are a pair of Chinese yoke back armchairs, objects well known as items of high style, craftsmanship, and sophistication, originally intended as seats for administrative officials. The highest panel is carved, in openwork, with a superb swirling dragon, the central panel is subtly imbued with a painted mountainous landscape, set with rivers and figures, and the lower panel consists of further openwork, in the shape of a ruyi head. The curving arms sit atop waisted side mounts, while the actual set is mounted upon legs, circular in shape, which are connected by a curving apron that sits atop stretchers. The backs of these fine hardwood pieces are inscribed with Chinese characters, and part of wax custom-permit stamp can be seen on one of the corners.