Antique Stools & Benches

Antique Stools & Benches bring timeless simplicity and rustic beauty to interiors and gardens alike. From the sturdy elm farmers’ stools of northern China to Shanxi spring benches and Indian reclaimed teak seats, each piece reflects the enduring elegance of handmade design.

Rustic Chinese Elm Stools

Our antique Chinese elm stools and milking seats were once used in farmhouses, workshops, and tea houses across northern China. Crafted from elm (榆木 yú mù) and red elm (榉木 jǔ mù), their weathered grain, tapered legs, and time-worn patina bring an understated charm to modern homes — perfect for farmhouse kitchens or to add a raw industrial contrast in contemporary interiors.

Handcrafted Benches of Form and Function

Chinese spring benches from Shanxi and wedding benches from Jiangsu reveal elegant proportions and subtle carving, while old reclaimed teak benches from India embody rustic warmth and endurance. Each piece offers both utility and presence — whether placed in a hallway, living room, or garden setting.

Materials and Craftsmanship

Provincial benches and stools were traditionally made from elm and red elm, while export furniture was more ornate, often carved in rosewood for Western markets. These contrasting traditions highlight China’s diverse material culture — from humble farmhouse pieces to finely detailed furniture made for global trade.

Outdoor and Cast Iron Furniture

Our collection also includes cast iron garden benches and verdigris outdoor seats from India and Britain — sculptural and durable, equally suited to courtyards or interiors. Explore our wider garden furniture collection for more examples of outdoor craftsmanship.