But upon closer examination, this seemingly ancient chair has secrets to tell: A sleek cushion now rests against the back, its curve subtly adjusted for modern ergonomics. Hidden beneath each leg are small wheels, allowing this sturdy piece of craftsmanship to glide across the floor.
This chair, a product of tradition fused with innovation, was created by Liu Gengsheng, 60, a master of Beijing-style wooden furniture. The craftsmanship behind it has been recognized as a national-level intangible cultural heritage since 2008.