This elegant late 19th to early 20th-century Chinese Official’s Hat chair (Guanmaoyi) is handcrafted from solid elmwood (yumu) and exemplifies the refined proportions of traditional Ming-style furniture. Its gracefully curved yoke-back crest rail, broad back splat, and sweeping armrests create a balanced silhouette, while traditional mortise-and-tenon joinery reflects generations of master craftsmanship. The rich lacquer finish has mellowed into a warm, naturally aged patina that enhances the beauty of the wood. Hidden beneath the apron is the original handwritten inscription 「東廿四」 (“East 24”), identifying the chair as part of a large commissioned set for an ancestral hall or prominent estate. This rare workshop marking provides a direct connection to the chair’s original historical setting, making it both a functional piece of furniture and an exceptional example of Chinese decorative arts.

Provenance

Acquired through Shanghai Guyi Antique Furniture Co., Ltd., Shanghai, China. Provenance is supported by the original company invoice dated October 28, 2007, documenting the item’s age, wood species, place of origin, and purchase information.