Chinese Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, Qing Dynasty

A remarkable late Qing Dynasty carved mother-of-pearl shell, intricately worked with scenes of Chinese village life, flowering plants, insects and animals. Dating from the 19th century, the shell displays an extraordinary density of decoration, with almost every part of its iridescent surface incorporated into the composition.

The upper section is carved with numerous figures amongst pavilions, houses, trees and pathways, including mounted figures and scenes of everyday rural life. Below, the design becomes increasingly naturalistic, with large butterflies, flowers, foliage, fish and other creatures emerging from the shimmering mother-of-pearl.

Particularly impressive is the way the carver has used the natural colour and lustre of the shell. Areas of pink, silver, green and gold change with the light, giving considerable depth to the finely engraved and relief-carved decoration.

The shell retains its carved hardwood display stand, decorated with flowering branches and blossoms. Together they form an unusually decorative and sculptural object, standing approximately 34 cm high.

These elaborately carved shells were produced in China during the Qing Dynasty as luxury decorative objects, often intended for export. Surviving examples vary greatly in quality; this piece is notable for the unusually large size of shell, exceptionally crowded composition and fine detail.

Dimensions
Shell: approximately 23 cm high × 22.5 cm wide
Stand: approximately 22 cm wide × 16 cm high × 8 cm deep
Overall height on stand: approximately 34 cm

Condition
Very good antique condition, with the natural variations, minor imperfections and signs of age expected of a shell of around 200 years of age. Please refer closely to the photographs, which form part of the description.

A striking example of Qing decorative carving and a particularly beautiful object for a cabinet, desk or interior collection.