Lot 069 A GROUP OF TWO DECORATIVE CHINESE SCHOLAR’S OBJECTS LATE QING DYNASTY – REPUBLIC PERIOD

Description

A GROUP OF TWO DECORATIVE CHINESE SCHOLAR’S OBJECTS
LATE QING DYNASTY – REPUBLIC PERIOD
清晚期至民国 竹雕及剔红风格器一组（两件）
MEASUREMENTS
• Bamboo Cylindrical Vessel (竹雕烟具): H. 12.0 cm, 4.7 in.
• Reticulated Cover Jar (镂空盖罐): H. 9.0 cm, 3.5 in.
ESTIMATE
USD 1,200 — 1,800
(HKD 9,400 — 14,000)
DESCRIPTION
This group consists of two distinct scholarly or household items from the late 19th to early 20th century, each showcasing intricate traditional decorative techniques:
1. Carved Bamboo Tobacco Vessel: Skillfully carved from a single section of thick bamboo culm, exhibiting a rich, dark honey-colored patina. The exterior is divided into two decorative registers: the upper register features a powerful dragon writhing amidst dense scrolling clouds in high relief, while the lower register depicts Shoulao (the God of Longevity) with a staff and a deer under a pine tree. The reverse side is inscribed with poetic calligraphy in clerical script.
2. Reticulated “Cinnabar-Style” Covered Jar: This jar features an elaborate openwork body and cover, meticulously carved in a style mimicking cinnabar lacquer. The dense scene depicts numerous figures and immortals amidst a complex landscape of pavilions and clouds. It is fitted with a metal swing handle and a decorative chain connecting the lid to the body.
此组器物由两件清末民初的文房陈设器组成：
1. 竹雕云龙及寿星纹烟具： 由上等厚实竹材雕就，色泽呈深红褐色，包浆莹润。器身分上下两段：上段高浮雕“云龙戏珠”纹，龙首威猛，穿行于层层流云之间；下段雕刻经典的“南极仙翁”（寿星）图，仙翁手持寿杖，旁衬瑞鹿与古松，寓意福寿延年。器身另一面刻有隶书题词。
2. 镂空雕人物故事纹盖罐： 此罐模仿剔红漆器工艺，通体进行精细的镂空雕刻。罐身及盖面布满人物、亭台及流云纹。配有金属提梁，并以细链连接罐盖，造型精巧，富有古意。
CATALOGUE NOTE
These objects represent the “Eclectic Style” of the Late Qing and Early Republic periods, reflecting the sophisticated taste of the era. Carved bamboo was highly esteemed in the scholar’s studio for its organic warmth and the virtuosic skill required to carve its fibrous surface. The reticulated jar demonstrates a continuation of the imperial lacquer aesthetic translated into a durable, highly decorative form suitable for holding tea or incense.
此组器物是清末民初文人生活情趣的典型实物。竹雕烟具展现了江南地区精湛的高浮雕技法，将文人雅趣与世俗祈福文化完美结合。镂空盖罐则通过复杂的镂刻工艺，复刻了经典漆器的华丽美感，是研究晚清民俗工艺的有趣参考。
CONDITION REPORT
• Condition: Overall in good condition for their age. The bamboo shows natural surface wear and minor vertical tension cracks typical of the material. The covered jar shows minor oxidation to the metal handle and chain.
• 整体品相良好。竹材见自然年代感磨损及竹器特有的细小纵向收缩纹。盖罐金属提梁见轻微氧化，符合其年代特征。