Japanese Dragon-Carved Export Armchair in Sugi Wood Meiji Era, c.1900 18" Seat

An extraordinary Japanese Meiji-era export armchair (c.1900), intricately carved from solid sugi (杉, Japanese cedar) in high relief with bold dragon (龍, ryū) motifs. The crest rail features a dramatic openwork dragon entwined among stylized clouds, while the arms terminate in fierce dragon heads with deeply carved scales, curling whiskers, and open jaws grasping the edges of the seat.

The front apron and cabriole legs are richly adorned with further foliate and wave patterns, continuing the sense of coiled movement and elemental energy. The seat retains its original natural finish framed by an incised key-fret border. Despite its Chinese stylistic influence, this example was made in Japan for export to Western markets, part of the Meiji-period fascination with exotic art furniture blending craftsmanship with mythological themes.

Carved from Japanese cedar (sugi), the chair has a lighter weight than tropical hardwood examples yet displays exceptional depth of carving and a dark stained surface intended to emulate ebony.

Dimensions: 35" tall × 27" wide × 20" deep; seat height 18"
Period: Meiji era (late 19th–early 20th century)
Condition: Very good antique condition; minor age wear, small surface splits, and scuffs consistent with age and use.

A striking work of Meiji-era export artistry—part sculpture, part statement piece—embodying the Japanese fascination with the dragon as a protector of wisdom and symbol of imperial vitality.