CIRCA 1900

Details

A LARGE CANTONESE IVORY PUZZLE BALL AND CARVED STAND
CIRCA 1900
The outer ball and sections of the stand deeply carved and pierced with writhing dragons intertwined with clouds, the stand carved with a figure drinking tea or wine surrounded by ladies holding flowers and the centre of the column has an integral puzzle ball

IMPORTANT NOTICE ON LOTS CONTAINING IVORY:
The USA has recently changed its policy on the import of property containing elephant ivory. Only Asian Elephant ivory may be imported into the USA, and imports must be accompanied by DNA analysis and confirmation the object is more than 100 years old. Buyers will be responsible for the costs of obtaining any DNA analysis or other report required in connection with their proposed import into the USA. A buyer’s inability to export or import a lot is not a basis for cancelling their purchase.
The ball 5 ½ in. (14 cm.) diam., ball and stand 28 ½ in. (72.4 cm.) high, wood stand

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.

Lot Essay

Carved ivory puzzle balls, or concentric balls, showcase the extraordinary skill and patience of the ivory carvers in China in the 18th and 19th centuries. Made for the export market, the ball consists of several independent globes carved and worked from a single piece using fine angled implements. This example is particularly impressive as it is larger than usual and contains more than seventeen layers.

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