Antique Chinese Qing Dynasty Hongmu Hardwood Single Stool Available 20"H

Antique Chinese Hongmu Stool Qing Dynasty

China, Qing Dynasty, late 19th century 

16.25"W × 12.25"D × 20.25"H (41 × 31 × 51 cm)

A finely made hongmu (红木) stool of classic Qing form, the floating-panel top framed by a deeply molded apron with mitered joinery at the corners. Straight square-section legs are joined by a continuous stretcher set just above the hoof feet, the spandrels cut in the characteristic ruyi-notched profile seen in quality workshop production of the period. The grain of the hongmu panel is rich and close, displaying the warm reddish-brown tones characteristic of the wood at its best. Construction throughout is mortise-and-tenon, assembled without mechanical fasteners. Four stools of this form were available at time of listing; this listing is for one stool.

Condition: Overall good antique condition consistent with age and use. One corner shows a split at the apron-to-leg junction with minor wood loss; surface carries an accumulation of light scratches and wear throughout. The floating top panel has developed a hairline separation at the panel joint, stable. Patina is even and unrestored.

A sturdy and well-proportioned example of late Qing hardwood seating furniture, equally suited to use as an occasional table or display stand