Chinese Qing Dynasty MOP Inlaid Hardwood Scholar's Seal Stand, 19th Century

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Chinese Qing Dynasty Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Hardwood Wood Scholar's Seal Stand, 19th Century

An exceptional 19th-century Chinese scholar’s seal stand or … Read more Chinese Qing Dynasty Mother-of-Pearl Inlaid Hardwood Wood Scholar's Seal Stand, 19th Century

An exceptional 19th-century Chinese scholar’s seal stand or brush rest, finely crafted from rich zitan or hardwood, and inlaid throughout with luminous mother-of-pearl. This piece exemplifies the refined artistry of the late Qing Dynasty and was likely created for a literati or scholar's desk.

The front is deeply pierced and inlaid with a classical "Hundred Antiques" (bǎibǎo tú) motif, symbolizing scholarship, longevity, and virtuous cultivation. Ruyi scepters, scrolls, double gourds, swords, and peach blossoms are intricately rendered in shimmering shell, referencing the cultural tools and ideals of the Confucian gentleman. The four recessed roundels on the top surface likely served as seal pots or brush holders, each outlined with floral-form inlay.

The back panel is also richly decorated, featuring stylized blossoms, scholar's rocks, incense burners, and archaic vessels in mother-of-pearl, framed with a mountainous crest rail. The inscriptions include auspicious phrases and the poetic pseudonym "Xuĕ Fēng Táng" (雪峰堂), meaning "Hall of Snowy Peaks."

Measuring 8 inches wide by 4.5 inches deep and 5 inches high, this rare scholar's stand would have once graced an esteemed studio. A deeply symbolic and visually exquisite object of the scholar's tradition, it remains a refined decorative piece for collectors of Chinese export and scholar's art.

Further Notes:
Symbols Present:
Ruyi Scepter (如意) – A wish-granting scepter symbolizing power, prosperity, and the fulfillment of one's desires.

Scrolls and Books – Represent scholarship, literary accomplishment, and the Confucian ideal of the learned gentleman.

Double Gourds (葫芦, húlú) – Symbolize health, longevity, and protection from evil; often associated with Daoist immortals.

Peach Blossom Branches – A common symbol of spring, rejuvenation, and immortality.

Sword in Scabbard (剑) – Represents protection, justice, and the power of moral integrity. Its inclusion alongside peach blossoms or plum suggests strength with grace.

Flame or Cloud Scrolls (祥云) – Represent good fortune, divine presence, and elevation to higher status.

Inscriptions:
The mother-of-pearl characters include:

雪峰 (Xuě Fēng) – “Snow Peak,” likely a poetic reference or pseudonym of a studio name or scholar.

堂 (Táng) – “Hall” or “Studio,” denoting the scholarly setting.

Interpretation:
This panel likely depicts a metaphorical scene invoking the virtues of learning, immortality, and nobility. The combination of civil (scrolls, ruyi) and martial (sword) elements reflects a balanced scholar-warrior ideal, a deeply revered Confucian theme.

The inscription on the back of the Chinese scholar’s seal stand, rendered in mother-of-pearl inlay, translates approximately to:

書堂宜納珍 (Shū táng yí nà zhēn)

This can be interpreted as:
“A study hall suited to receiving treasured things”
or more poetically:
“A scholar’s studio welcomes the rare and refined.”

This type of inscription is auspicious and aligns with traditional scholar’s ideals — refinement, connoisseurship, and literary cultivation. It underscores the intended function of the object as part of a scholar’s desk ensemble, where treasured seals, brushes, or tokens of intellectual life would be stored or displayed. See less