Pair of Elm Southern Official Chairs w145 The elegant 'horse hoof' feet

The elegant 'horse hoof' feet and S-shape supporting braces (known in Chinese as 'bawangcheng') are typical features of furniture from China's Ming dynasty but the table's timeless style makes it the perfect stage for vases

each beautifully decorated with traditional paintings of flower vases and scholarly possessions against a cream background

The term 'Wedding Cabinet' is a more recent westernised description

circular brass plates on the doors

Pair of Elm Southern Official Chairs w145 The elegant 'horse hoof' feetShanxi, circa 1880 These stylish, elegant armchairs are in a 'Southern Official' style, with the arms continuing down to meet the seat on curved posts rather than extending out. The design is quite pure, with simple lines and perfect proportions. Along with the curved, narrow arm posts, the backrests are subtly curved for comfort and are each decorated with a circular long life symbol in carved relief. The original black lacquer finish is largely