Pair of huali jiaoyi folding armchairs, China, late 19th - early 20th centuryThe rounded horseshoe-shaped backs, with a central openwork band carved with a rectangular panel showing a kilin standing on rocks from which a lingzi and a double-gourd grow among clouds, and a medallion decorated with a coiled shi dragon. A small shi dragon skillfully carved into the low curve of each armrest. The seat braided with a rope, the wooden upright of the front face carved with two shi dragons and scrolls. The legs are fitted with a footrest reinforced with a brass plate with openwork motifs. The various reinforcements and parts related to the folding are also in brass. Height: 106 cm ; width: 73 cmSome cracks in the wood . Provenance: Brought back by Mr. D., a customs officer posted in Indochina between the two wars and kept in the family since then .