Late Qing Dynasty Hardwood Bamboo-Form Double-Sided Table Screen with Mother-of-Pearl and Hardstone Inlay, Twin Phoenixes, and the Poem “Mooring by Maple Bridge at Night”

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height 140 cm (55.12 in.), Width 113 cm (44.49 in.) | Period: 19th Century | Late Qing Dynasty | Condition and Provenance: Provenance: From a private collection in Virginia, USA, acquired by an Asian art collector in the 1970s and held within the same family collection ever since. Condition: Excellent condition; original base intact. The hardwood frame is sturdy and free of cracks, repairs, or warping. The mother-of-pearl and gemstone inlays on both sides are largely intact with only minor signs of aging. The bamboo-shaped carved frame retains a rich natural patina, showcasing the beauty of a complete decorative screen from this period. Description: This impressive late Qing Dynasty double-sided hardwood screen embodies the exquisite craftsmanship and culture of traditional Chinese decorative furniture. The sturdy hardwood base not only provides excellent stability but also accentuates the screen's elegant architectural beauty. The front panel is adorned with exquisite petal-shaped patterns, inlaid with a pair of lifelike phoenixes crafted from finely carved mother-of-pearl and hard stones. The two phoenixes stand facing each other, wings outstretched, tail feathers flowing. The natural pearlescent shells shimmer with white, silver, and gold luster under changing light, creating a breathtaking and ever-changing spectacle. White clouds surround the phoenixes, and scrollwork adorns the four corners. The patterns along the top and bottom edges echo the overall design, forming a harmonious scene. The back panel is equally exquisite, featuring the elegant calligraphy of the famous Tang Dynasty poem "Night Mooring at Maple Bridge," the characters entirely inlaid with sparkling mother-of-pearl. The magnificent calligraphy contrasts sharply with the deep red hardwood, giving the screen both literary and artistic merit. The top and bottom borders are also decorated with the same patterns, ensuring the screen is equally beautiful on both sides. This exceptional double-sided screen, combining exquisite hardwood carving, traditional mother-of-pearl inlay, hard stone decoration, and classical Chinese calligraphy, embodies the highest quality of Qing Dynasty decorative arts and is an excellent centerpiece for a refined study, tea room, gallery, or distinguished private collection.

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