In the Qing Dynasty

“Taishi Armchair” in the Qing dynasty referred to neither folding chairs nor round-backed armchairs. It referred to those armchairs that were put in halls or quite formal and elegant places.

Taishi Armchairs from Qianlong’s reign are the most exquisite. They were made of red sandalwood and rosewood, and mounted with china, stone or enamel. They look formal and rigorous. The Taishi Armchair was a symbol of its master’s status and identity then.

In the late Qing dynasty, the manufacture of Taishi Armchair has become more and more complicated. Its forms have become inappropriate and it has become less comfortable. Despite the advancement in modeling techniques, it has declined in terms of furniture’s development pattern.

Extension

The Taishi Armchair used to be a symbol of power and status. It was put in palace and yamen (government offices in feudal China) for officials. Since the mid-to-late Qing Dynasty, it has entered common people’s houses. It was very popular due to its exquisite sculpture and elegance. Later, it was even made of beech and became a common seat article.