China Chinese red-lacquered snuff box carved with scenes of literati. - 6.2 cm

Beautiful and very finely carved Chinese cinnabar lacquer snuff bottle dating from the Qing dynasty, probably from the late 18th or early 19th century. The bottle, of an oval flattened shape, presents a decoration particularly rich, executed in deep relief. Both faces are animated with scenes of literati in a tree-covered landscape. On one, several figures are gathered around a Weiqi board, the traditional Chinese strategy game; on the other, a literatus is depicted at a table, accompanied by a servant. Knotted trees, rocks, architectures and geometric backgrounds structure the whole and extend naturally onto the sides. The neck and the foot are underscored by meander friezes, while a border of ruyi motifs adorns the shoulders. The contrast between the polished red surfaces and the darker recessed areas remarkably enhances the depth of the sculpture. The technique corresponds to tihong, in which many layers of red lacquer are applied successively before being sculpted. The decorative vocabulary and the quality of the work bring this piece close to a group of Qing snuff bottles associated with the taste of the Beijing ateliers and the imperial court. However, a direct attribution to the Palace workshops remains prudent and cannot be asserted with certainty. The piece also benefits from an ancient Belgian provenance, having belonged to the collection of Robert and Isabelle de Strycker, where it had been kept since the mid-20th century. Good overall condition for its age, with signs of use, small irregularities and a small old chip at the lip. The stopper is missing. Dimensions: 6.2 × 3.5 × 1.6 cm Weight: 42.2 g It is a collectible snuff bottle particularly appealing for the density of its decoration, the depth of its sculpture, and the quality of its provenance. video link: https://www.dropbox.com/scl/fo/sa8a1m76almi5lpg9okaj/AJQ1nHCUkYDXtb_9NWtTrTQ?rlkey=hx2f2itlyl8jhxugtunw5q8bt&dl=0

Estimate:£1,438.82

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