A PAIR OF CARVED AND POLISHED WALNUT HAND EXERCISERS

Details

A PAIR OF CARVED AND POLISHED WALNUT HAND EXERCISERS
18TH/19TH CENTURY

Each carved using the irregularities of the shell with an allover pattern of double-gourd vines, with several birds incorporated into the design of one, polished to a satiny finish and of rich reddish-brown color
1 7/8in. (4.8cm.) high, boxes (2)

Lot Essay

For an illustration and discussion of walnut hand exercisers, see Tsang and Moss, Arts from the Scholar's Studio, Oriental Ceramic Society, Hong Kong, 1986, Catalogue, no. 259. See, also, two pairs of carved walnuts illustrated in R.P. Piccus, Wood from the Scholar's Table, Hong Kong, 1984, no. 112