Low Flared Leg Bench

This 19th-century low bench from China's Shanxi province beautifully exemplifies the art of Chinese furniture making - strong sweeping lines, dramatically flared legs, and finely carved cloud spandrels. It is one of the only benches we have encountered with legs that flare out with subtly curved ends. Low benches such as this were most commonly used by musicians playing before an admiring audience seated on the floor. Cloaked in an aged lacquer finish, the bench is a gorgeous way to add rich texture and form to an entryway or living room.