Country Side Stool Console Table These decorative cast iron horses

These decorative cast iron horses are replicas of pieces from China's Tang dynasty (618 - 907 AD)

and used to serve tea and other refreshments

The butterfly is a symbol of happiness in a marriage for the Chinese and as such is often seen on painted Chinese cabinets and chests that were made to be given as part of a wedding settlement

The cabinet tapers upwards to meet the curved apron at either end of the top surface

circa 1920

Country Side Stool Console Table These decorative cast iron horsesThis simple square stool is not only great for seating, but also works perfectly as a side table, either next to a bed or a sofa. Stools have been used at all levels of society in China for centuries and this one, with its classic 'horse hoof' feet and waisted seat, is typical of a style that was very common during the Ming dynasty and still survives today.