Late Qing dynasty (1644 - 1912) China Provincial armchairs elm

The square shaped provincial armchairs are uncomplicated in design, incorporating series of straight rods for the back and arm rests. These straight rods are in the style of bamboo, growing straight and tall. One of China’s most important natural products, bamboo provides building material for houses and scaffolding, raw material for paper and is used to construct countless everyday objects, from chopsticks, walking sticks and calligraphy brushes to pipes, firecrackers and musical instruments. Bamboo shoots are also considered a delicacy and are used in cooking and to spice wine.