Pair Chinese Horseshoe Hunting Folding Chairs

A remarkable pair of late 19th-century Chinese solid elmwood horseshoe hunting chairs, known as Jiao-Yi. These chairs, steeped in history and tradition, were reserved for individuals of high rank and courtly significance. Each chair is constructed with a rounded crestrail, mounted with metal and terminating in gracefully outswept handrests. The back splat is a testament to skilled craftsmanship, featuring elaborate carvings of qilin motifs, swirling cloud scrolls, and a powerful coiled dragon nestled within a ruyi-shaped cartouche. A sturdy iron strut braces the elegantly curved arm to the leg, while hinged flat foot supports provide added comfort. Gleaming brass mounts accentuate all parts of the chair. The seats are fitted with comfortable woven mats, further embellished with dragons carved in relief on the front. Designed to fold for convenient transport, the Jiao-Yi were essential furnishings for royal hunting expeditions, outdoor events, and imperial travels.