A RARE PAIR OF POLYCHROME IVORY POMEGRANATE CARVINGS

Details

A RARE PAIR OF POLYCHROME IVORY POMEGRANATE CARVINGS
QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

Each naturalistically modelled as a pomegranate fruit bursting to expose the pink seeds within, borne on a gnarled stem issuing futher smaller fruit and blooms, one carving detailed with a bat and spider, the other with only a spider
4 1/8 in. (10.5 cm.) wide, wood stands (2)

If you wish to view the condition report of this lot, please sign in to your account.

View condition report

Lot Essay

When depicted exposing the seeds within, the pomegranate conveys a wish for numerous sons. The bats, fu, symbolise 'blessings' and the spider xizi, or 'little joy', is a harbinger of happy events to come. These carvings are rich in auspicious symbolism.

More from The Imperial Sale Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art

View All