Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880
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Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, China, Late Qing Dynasty, c.1880

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Each piece is individually selected for quality, authenticity and character. Complimentary standard shipping worldwide. Express shipping options are available at checkout.

Description

A finely carved mother-of-pearl shell depicting an extensive Chinese landscape, dating to the late Qing Dynasty, circa 1880.

The natural surface of the shell has been worked across almost its entire face with a detailed scene of figures among pavilions, gardens, rocky outcrops and stylised trees. Small groups of figures appear throughout the landscape, some conversing and others travelling through the garden setting, creating an unusually lively composition.

The carving makes particularly effective use of the natural lustre and changing colour of the mother-of-pearl. As the shell catches the light, the engraved and relief-carved details appear against shifting tones of silver, cream, green and pink.

The shell is Pinctada maxima, a large pearl oyster historically harvested in Australian and Southeast Asian waters and exported to centres of shell carving in China

Measuring approximately 20 × 18 cm, the shell has an irregular natural form and is presented diagonally on a contemporary metal display stand.

A striking example of late 19th-century Chinese shell carving, combining natural material, intricate workmanship and the traditional landscape imagery of the period.

Dimensions: approximately 20 × 18 cm
Date: circa 1880
Origin of Carving: China
Material: mother-of-pearl / pearl shell
Stand: contemporary metal display stand

Excellent condition. As a natural antique object, minor surface marks and natural irregularities are present and form part of its age and character. Please refer to the photographs for a detailed indication of condition.
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