TWO CHINESE HARDWOOD STANDS, ONE ZITAN, THE OTHER PROBABLY ROSEWOOD, 18TH/19TH CENTURY

拍品描述

TWO CHINESE HARDWOOD STANDS, ONE ZITAN, THE OTHER PROBABLY ROSEWOOD, 18TH/19TH CENTURY The lot comprises two finely carved Chinese hardwood stands, one in zitan and the other probably rosewood, each worked in a dark, dense timber with a rich patinated surface. Their compact scale and elaborate carving suggest their use as supports for small scholar’s objects, hardstone carvings, porcelain vessels or other treasured works of art. The larger stand is of irregular pierced form, carved to evoke a naturalistic rocky outcrop or rootwood formation. Its upper surface is cut with shaped apertures and layered ridges, while the sides are worked with projecting, crag-like forms and short integral feet. The carving creates a sense of organic movement, the polished dark surface contrasting with areas of exposed grain and age-related wear. The second stand is conceived as a swirling foliate or chrysanthemum-like form, its top carved with radiating, spiralling ribs issuing from a central vortex. The scalloped outline and deeply undercut sides give the piece a sculptural vitality, while the dark reddish-brown tone and worn high points enhance the impression of long handling and use. Chinese hardwood stands were integral to the display culture of the scholar’s studio and the refined domestic interior, elevating precious objects both physically and visually. Zitan, prized for its density, lustre and rarity, was especially esteemed, while rosewood and related hardwoods provided similarly resonant surfaces for intricate carving and display furniture on a miniature scale. Together, the two stands form a complementary pair of late Qing or earlier display supports, distinguished by their contrasting naturalistic and radiating carved designs, rich hardwood surfaces and finely judged proportions. Length of Largest: 11.5cm

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