Wood Jiali Chair

Flared hook ends point outward like a pair of polite hands.

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. Chair in golden brown with a rounded back rail that rolls forward into arms. The vertical splat has gentle swirling grain, and the seat panel sits in a raised frame. Four slim stretchers brace the splayed-looking base. It is 22.5 inches long, 17.5 deep and 30 high.

A gentle curve and a firm stance, nicely balanced.