Pair of Iron Clad Benches

This pair of late 19th-century benches are designed in a traditional style that dates back as far as the Song dynasty (690-1279 CE). The corner leg benches have floating panel tops, straight square legs, and long floor stretchers anchored in place by studded iron fittings. The need for elongated floor stretchers abated during the Ming dynasty (1368-1644) as joinery techniques improved. Likely an homage to these earlier forms, this pair is minimally decorated with only dark lacquer, in keeping with refined Ming aesthetics.