A RARE CHINESE PINK CORAL FIGURE DEPICTING BOYS ON A TREE WITH BIRDS, QING DYNASTY (1644-1911)

拍品描述

A RARE CHINESE PINK CORAL FIGURE DEPICTING BOYS ON A TREE WITH BIRDS, QING DYNASTY (1644-1911) Exquisitely carved from a single section of natural pink coral, this finely worked figure depicts two playful boys climbing and supporting a flowering tree alive with birds and foliage. The composition rises vertically in a dynamic, openwork arrangement, the natural branching of the coral ingeniously incorporated into the design. One boy is shown standing upright, his youthful features softly rounded and his hair neatly arranged, while the other clambers upward with animated expression, grasping the trunk above. Between and above them emerges a woven basket brimming with blossoms, from which flowering branches extend. Birds perch among the blooms, their wings delicately incised and feathers rendered with careful texturing. The blossoms are carved in layered relief, each petal crisply defined, contrasting with the smooth, polished surfaces of the figures. The coral displays a gentle gradation of tone, from creamy white to warm blush pink, with subtle natural inclusions that attest to its organic origin. The sculptor has skilfully utilised these tonal variations to enhance depth and vitality within the scene. The openwork carving demonstrates a high level of technical mastery, particularly in the undercutting around the birds, floral sprays, and the intertwined forms of the children. In Chinese decorative symbolism, boys are auspicious motifs associated with prosperity, continuity of lineage, and joyful abundance. The combination of children, flowering branches, and birds conveys wishes for happiness and flourishing success, themes especially favoured during the Qing dynasty. The sculpture is presented on a carved hardwood stand of scrolling form, complementing the organic contours of the coral and providing stable support while enhancing its display presence. Height: 18cm Height with stand: 21.5cm Weight of coral: 158g

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