Pair of Chinese Gilt Relief Fragments with Taoist Immortals

This hand-carved wooden fragment was originally a decorative element of ornate Qing-dynasty furniture or architecture. Colored by gilt pigments over an underlayer of red lacquer, the fragment depicts a silk brocade ball, commonly depicted alongside fu dog lions to symbolize high rank or power. The embroidered ball is flanked by chrysanthemum blossoms and tied with a long flowing ribbon, a sign of longevity. Elevated by a custom steel display mount, the storied fragment adds bright color and iridescence to a bookcase or table arrangement...

This carved limestone charm promises longevity in the form of the immortal peach. According to Chinese mythology, the Jade Emperor’s palace was surrounded by peach trees that provided ripe fruit every three thousand years. A single bite of this charmed fruit...

These carved wooden panels were once a part of the railing to a grand Qing-dynasty daybed or canopy bed enclosure. Expertly crafted, the panel displays a beautiful relief carving wit...

Popularized during the Qing dynasty, reverse glass painting requires an artist to essentially work backwards, starting with details and shading before adding color and form. Lending the finished work a subtle three-dimensional effect, this exacting technique doesn't allow for any corrections, and is only revealed to its full effect when the glass pane is turned around. This example dates to the late 19th century and depicts the Taoist immortals He Xiangu and Cao Guojiu. Said to have attained immortality through their studies of the natural world, the Eight Immortals each represent a different condition in life and impart blessings of prosperity and longevity. The charming scene is likely one of a set of...