Old elm wood bench – China, circa 1930

This antique elm bench features a continuous top measuring 218 cm, supported by four straight legs with sculpted brackets at the junction of the legs and the top, reinforced by two horizontal crossbars on each side. It originates from northern China, dating from the end of the Qing dynasty, where elm was crafted using a traditional mortise and tenon joinery. Chinese low benches—longer variants of the table at the foot of the kang—were placed against the wall of the main room and served as resting benches, service tables sitting on the floor, or horizontal display pieces. The length of 218 cm with a height of 55 cm positions this piece between a bench and a low table. The body is constructed from solid elm. The top is a long continuous panel. The four straight legs descend at right angles to the ground and end with sculpted brackets with a scalloped profile at the junction with the top. Two horizontal crossbars on each side, positioned at mid-height, stiffen the structure. The joinery is traditional Chinese mortise and tenon, without screws. Details. Dimensions: Length 218 cm – Depth 41 cm – Height 55 cm. Style: Qing Dynasty. Materials and techniques: Solid elm; traditional Chinese mortise and tenon joinery; sculpted brackets at the junction of legs and top; double horizontal crossbar on each side. Place of origin: China. Period: End of the Qing Dynasty / Early Republic. Date of manufacture: Circa 1930. Condition / Observations: Good. Elm top with sculpted brackets and warm brown patina. Wear consistent with age and use.