Antique Chinese Mother of Pearl Abalone Shell Carving Circa Qing/Republic

Details

Description

An exquisite and intricately hand-carved shell fan depicting an elegant garden scene with a nobleman or scholar accompanied by a … Read more An exquisite and intricately hand-carved shell fan depicting an elegant garden scene with a nobleman or scholar accompanied by a man and woman. Rich in detail and craftsmanship, this decorative piece showcases the artistry of traditional shell carving.

Fashioned from a large natural shell with a lustrous mother-of-pearl surface, the fan-shaped carving features a finely rendered landscape complete with graceful figures, a pagoda, and a delicately pierced tree filled with leaves. The upper edge is embellished with an etched border that frames the composition.

The carving exhibits remarkable precision and depth, with expertly incised lines that accentuate the figures and architectural details. The reverse reveals the openwork piercing and the shell’s beautiful iridescent mother-of-pearl surface.

The piece bears no maker’s marks or labels.

MEASUREMENTS
9 in (22.9 cm) wide x 6 ¾ in (17.1 cm) tall x 7/8 in deep. Weighs 8.4 oz.

CONDITION
There are no chips, cracks, breaks, or repairs. There is yellowing on the edges, although this may be the natural shell color.

A striking example of decorative shell carving, this finely detailed work would make a distinctive addition to any collection of Asian art or natural curiosities. See less