**This is an oversized piece that may require special shipping. Please inquire for a quote prior to bidding.

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A gorgeous hand-carved, openwork wood screen presenting a rectangular form resembling a window divided into 9 sections, each adorned with an elaborate zoomorphic, anthropomorphic, and phytomorphic decoration. Largest of the sections, the center of the piece is adorned with a roundel featuring a wandering male figure. The intriguing man carries a basket in both hands as he stands before an intricate lattice pattern with his head facing left and his body turned right. Billowing folds of a knee-length robe drape his body atop a pair of pants, while cloud-like swirls decorate the area surrounding him. In the other sections, a pair of phoenixes flank the roundel and the top and bottom are filled with a wild boar and a dancing horse, respectively. An abstract floral design embellished the sections in each corner. The top of the piece is fit with a metal loop allowing it to be suspended for display. Size without hook: 23" W x 27.5" H (58.4 cm x 69.8 cm); Size with hook: 23" W x 29.3" H (58.4 cm x 74.4 cm)

This elegant carving is not only replete with artistic virtuosity, but also iconographic meaning. First, according to legend, the phoenix is the most beautiful of all birds, called the "feng huang," and the etymology of the name is derived from "emperor." The phoenix will only appear in times of prosperity and peace, second only in the supernatural creatures of the Chinese pantheon to the dragon. The horse is another significant Chinese symbol, as the animal was believed to play an important role in the Chinese Empire by enabling the ancients to communicate to parties near and far due to the great speed of these noble steeds. Additionally, the horse also assisted the military to conquer distant lands and grow the empire. As the desire for stronger, faster breeds grew, the ancients imported horses from Central Asia, leading to the creation of the famous Silk Road.

Provenance: private Hawaii, USA collection; ex-M. Kobiashi collection, Hawaii, USA, acquired from 1960 to 2000

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all winning bids.

PLEASE NOTE: Due to recent increases of shipments being seized by Australian & German customs (even for items with pre-UNESCO provenance), we will no longer ship most antiquities and ancient Chinese art to Australia & Germany. For categories of items that are acceptable to ship to Australia or Germany, please contact us directly or work with your local customs brokerage firm.

Display stands not described as included/custom in the item description are for photography purposes only and will not be included with the item upon shipping.

#168421

Central roundel is loose and appears possibly detachable. Repair and restoration to floral elements in each corner section. Loosening of some floral elements, as well as upper right corner. Expected nicks, chips, and abrasions, commensurate with age. Otherwise, excellent with lovely patina.