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Chinese Hardwood Scholar Tray with Brass Mounts, Late Qing Dynasty

$2,800
£2,124.58
€2,429.26
CA$3,910.84
A$4,348.32
CHF 2,270.45
MX$52,929.68
NOK 28,970.01
SEK 27,143.51
DKK 18,130.03
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About the Item

A simple and elegant Chinese hardwood and brass mounted scholar tray, late Qing Dynasty, circa 1900, China. The scholar tray crafted of a solid and heavy densely figured hardwood of dark reddish brown color, and features an inset floating panel. The corners reinforced with brass fittings shaped as stylized clouds or lingzhi. Each side features a brass fitting in the form of an endless knot. The endless knot is an auspicious symbol in Chinese culture. As one of the Ashtamangala, or Eight Auspicious (Buddhist) Symbols, the endless knot represents the intertwined nature of wisdom and compassion. In secular Chinese culture, the endless knot symbolizes love and luck. The scholar tray is an essential component of the scholar studio and desk. Called a ducheng pan in Chinese, these types of trays were both utilitarian and decorative. They were used to easily carry calligraphic utensils, as well as to display precious objects.
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 1.25 in (3.18 cm)Width: 12 in (30.48 cm)Depth: 9 in (22.86 cm)
  • Style:
    Qing (Of the Period)
  • Materials and Techniques:
    Brass,Hardwood,Joinery
  • Place of Origin:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    circa 1900
  • Condition:
    Wear consistent with age and use. Minor fading. The underside with some remnants of felt pads.
  • Seller Location:
    Austin, TX
  • Reference Number:
    1stDibs: LU894725406772

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