Wood Jiali Chair

Warm tones, tight joints, and arms that finish with a small flick.

This jiali chair dates to the 20th century. It is sand blasted elm wood. During the Cultural Revolution, from 1966 to 1976, a great deal of antique Chinese furniture was burned, confiscated or scattered, which the article says helped start the scarcity of such pieces. Rounded back rail ends in short hooked terminals on either side. A tall splat shows tan, cathedral-like grain, and the seat panel is crisply framed. The legs are stout and square with a low box of stretchers. It is 22.5 inches long, 17.5 deep and 30 high.

No ornament needed when the curve is this good.