Rare Chinese Huanghuali Armchairs and Patinated Bronze Guanyin Figure Lead Freeman’s Upcoming Sale

Huanghuali is a highly rare species of rosewood found in Hainan province, China. The “yellow flowering pear” wood is cherished for its rich tones and abstract patterns. Durable and resistant, it was regarded as ideal for making antique Chinese furniture. The upcoming Freeman’s auction will feature a pair of huanghuali continuous yoke-back Official’s Hat armchairs from the Qing dynasty. Each chair has a boldly-carved crest rail over a bowed splat carved in low relief with a stylized lotus cartouche. With tapered stiles, serpentine arms and supports, it has a paneled seat with the legs joined by a box stretcher. Another striking Chinese lot is a pair of famille rose-decorated porcelain “Thousand Bats” vases. Each piece has a flared lip and globular body on a circular foot. It depicts iron red bats and colorful clouds with a six-character marking to the underside. 

A Chinese patinated bronze figure of Avalokiteshvara/Guanyin, Yunnan (12th to 14th century) also leads the listings. Sculpted in a seated posture, the figure bears a calm facial expression. Guanyin is portrayed with an elaborate crown, floral ornaments, and holding a willow branch in the right hand and a bowl in the left. Visit Freeman’s to view the complete catalog and register to bid in the upcoming Asian Art sale.