Late 19th Century Long Wood Wall Decorative Panel Carved With Auspicious Symbols

Details

Description

From my observations on wall decorations during my recent trip to Shanghai, Suzhou and Guangzhou, I was most disappointed to … Read more From my observations on wall decorations during my recent trip to Shanghai, Suzhou and Guangzhou, I was most disappointed to find antique wood panels replaced by modern reproductions that hardly show the finesse of wood carving made famous by craftsmen of times past. Perhaps the antique carvings are stored away from the multitudes of tourists. This long wood carving is indeed the longest I have ever encountered during the ten years of shopping in China. I have to be honest, it is not the most beautiful, but having the size and all the auspicious symbols speak volumes. Images of raised carvings of flora and fauna are found on the approximately 103 inches surface. They represent all the auspicious symbols one desires - Good Fortune, Rank and Longevity. (Rank is important in Dynastic China - it indicates one's status in society. In order to achieve status, one must study for official examinations. The highest honor is to be Prime Minister, and the lowest is an official in a small town.) Fish, peonies, and flowers in vases represent wealth, phoenix (symbol for empress) and Qilin (a mythical animal) represent rank and peaches for longevity. Pomegranates that are full of seeds represent fertility.

The long panel has a row of verticulated design that resembles tassels from a tapestry. It is the work of wood carvings of Fujian, a southeastern province that was quite wealthy in the 19th century. Her wealth came from the money from the expatriates who immigrated to Southeast Asia. These people returned home and built fine houses decorated with black and gold wood carvings. See less