18TH/19TH CENTURY

Details

A STAINED AND CARVED IVORY CIRCULAR TABLE SCREEN AND STAND
18TH/19TH CENTURY
The screen is finely carved and pierced depicting a terraced pavilion, each section of the building standing on wide platforms carved as waisted lotus petal bases, with elaborate latticework partitions and roofs supported by narrow beams set with intricately carved brackets, all within a band of five bats amongst clouds encircling the rim. The back of the screen is decorated with a large stylised shou character. The mid-section of the stand is formed as a vase carved with lingzhi, mounted on a rectangular base decorated with pierced leafy and archaistic scrolls.
11¼ in. (28.5 cm.) high

Provenance

Christie's London, 9 May 1994, lot 258.

Special notice

Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Brought to you by

Caroline Allen

Check the condition report or get in touch for additional information about this

callen@christies.com +44 (0)20 7389 2593

If you wish to view the condition report of this lot, please sign in to your account.

View condition report

Lot Essay

This unusual screen is of very rare form and subject matter. The pavilion scene depicted is intricately pierced and arranged to appear three-dimensional. There are many auspicious symbols carved throughout. The five bats to the front bracket represent good fortune and longevity with further bats and clouds to the narrow sides alluding to good luck and happiness. The shou character to the back also signifies long life and the ruyi sprays on the mid-section of the stand are synonyms for 'as you wish'. The screen would have been a welcome scholarly gift wishing the owner a properous life fulfilled with all that one might desire.

More from Arts of the Carver Chinese Works of Art From An Important European Collection

View All