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Pair of Antique Sino-Tibetan Monastic Meditation Chairs
Era: Late 19th Century to Early 20th Century (c. 1880–1920)
Origin: Tibet / Bordering Himalayan regions (Sino-Tibetan)
Primary Materials: Solid Elm/Cedar, Hand-Etched Brass, Silk Brocade
General Overview
A rare and exceptional matched pair of large-scale Monastic Meditation Chairs (Meditation Thrones).
-Traditionally used in high-ranking Buddhist monastic settings or by noble families for extended periods of silent meditation
-these chairs are designed with the wide, deep proportions necessary to support a practitioner in the full Lotus or Vajrasana position.
Design & Construction Details
Frame & Form: These chairs feature a robust, low-profile frame with traditional \"Horse-Hoof\" (Kuntai) feet, a hallmark of Ming-influenced carpentry.
-The backrests and armrests are designed with a low, open-frame aesthetic to encourage an upright, alert posture.
Metalwork: Each joint and corner is reinforced with hand-etched brass plates. -The motifs feature delicate Lotus and Peony floral scrolls, symbolizing purity and spiritual growth.
-The brass is secured with authentic hand-forged pins, showing a warm, authentic age-mottled patina.
Seating: The seat features a traditional wooden slat base, providing superior structural stability.
Upholstery: The chairs include their signature deep-red silk/cotton brocade cushions, featuring the Golden Shou (Longevity)
-Circle motif. The cushions are edged with traditional piping, providing both comfort and symbolic meaning.
Condition Report
Excellent antique condition. The wood frames are structurally sound and stable with no significant wobbling. -The brass plates show natural oxidation consistent with age.
-Minor superficial wear to the wood and cushions commensurate with age and ceremonial use,
-lending to the overall character and \"soul\" of the pieces.
Dimensions (Per Chair):
Width: 25 inches
Depth: 25 inches
Height: 11 inches (to the seat rail)
