MID-QING DYNASTY

In the traditional Chinese domestic setting, the bed is among the most important pieces of furniture. Its large size meant that it would dominate the bedroom, and was probably the most expensive item to commission, due to the large amount of timber used. The canopy bed was generally associated with the female setting and would have been the most important part of a woman’s dowry when she wed.

The decorative motifs on beds often have symbolic connotations and auspicious wishes. The railings of the current canopy bed are constructed with heart-shaped designs interspersed with dragon roundels, below a round strut in the form of a coiled dragon. Below the canopy, the hanging eave is divided into three sections on the front, each decorated with carved open panels depicting ‘Pheasants and peony’, ‘Carp leaping over the dragon gate’ and ‘phoenixes amidst flowers’.

Compare to a huanghuali six-post canopy bed that also combine dragon motif and lattice on the openwork railings, see Grace Wu Bruce, Chinese Classical Furniture: Selections from Hong Kong & London Gallery, 2001, Hong Kong, pl.no.21.

Please note this lot incorporate material from endangered species which could result in export restrictions. You should check the relevant customs laws and regulations before bidding on this lot if you plan to import the lot into another country. Please refer to Christie’s Conditions of Sale.