Qing Dynasty (17th–19th Century) Boxwood Carved Bamboo and Cicada Scholar’s Arm Rest

拍品描述

Dimensions: Height 18 cm (7.1 inches), Width 7.5 cm (3.0 inches), Weight 195 g (0.43 lb), Qing Dynasty, circa 17th-19th century. Condition and Provenance: Excellent overall condition. Carved from a single piece of boxwood, without any splicing or repairs. The surface exhibits a warm reddish-brown hue, radiating the natural marks of age. The carved bamboo leaves, cicada wings, and other fine details are clearly visible, with no obvious cracks, insect damage, or missing parts. Provenance: Private collection, Virginia, USA. Preserved for many years as part of an American literati collection. Description: This exquisitely carved boxwood scholar's armrest is an outstanding example of Qing Dynasty literati craftsmanship. Carved from a single piece of high-quality boxwood, the wood is dense and has a fine grain. Decades of natural weathering have given it a deep and elegant antique feel. Its design mimics the shape of natural bamboo, with carved bamboo joints and curved grooves for comfortable arm support while writing or painting. The base, modeled after the natural shape of bamboo roots, is structurally stable and elegant, combining practicality and artistic beauty. The piece showcases various traditional carving techniques, including openwork, relief carving, sculpture in the round, and fine engraving. The bamboo leaves, carved in openwork, are light, agile, and lifelike; the cicada wings, protruding eyes, and legs gripping the branches are also meticulously depicted. The combination of bamboo and cicada carries rich traditional symbolism, representing a thriving career and the pursuit of excellence by literati. The piece's well-preserved surface, deep patina, and exquisite craftsmanship fully embody the essence of Qing Dynasty literati culture.

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