Low Elm Saddle Stool From Shanxi - 19th Century

This characterful 19th-century elm saddle stool is crafted from a substantial slab of solid elm, hand-shaped into a gently curved “saddle” seat using traditional carpentry techniques. The thick, sculpted top sits on four sturdy legs joined by stretchers, creating a piece that is both practical and enduring. The simplicity of its construction highlights the beauty of the timber itself — visible grain, natural undulations, and a time-softened patina developed through decades of honest use.

Originally used by farm workers, stools of this kind were everyday rural furniture, valued for their strength and portability. Today, their rustic charm and sculptural silhouette make them highly versatile — equally suited as a side table, bedside piece, or additional seating at a dining table. The understated form fits beautifully within relaxed, country, or shabby chic interiors.

The stool shows signs of age consistent with its history, including surface wear and possible later repairs, all contributing to its authentic character.

• Origin: China
• Date: 19th Century
• Materials: Solid Elm
• Construction: Traditional Mortise And Tenon Joinery
• Features: Hand-Shaped Saddle Seat, Stretcher Supports, Rustic Patina
• Condition: Age-Related Wear With Possible Later Repairs
• Dimensions: W50 x D41 x H55 cm