Plaque with dragon, pheasant, quail, and other birds amidst bamboo and plum blossom
This large two-sided plaque showcases the skill of ivory carvers in the eighteenth century. Four powerful dragons crawl along the edges, and a host of plants, flowers, and birds (including pheasants and quails) are beautifully carved on one side. The depth of the carving—the flowers and birds are nearly three-dimensional—is typical of the eighteenth century, as is the use of ink to enhance select elements. A scene showing figures performing everyday activities in a landscape is incised into the other side of the plaque, which also has a six-character mark that indicates that the plaque was inspired by works produced during the reign of the Qianlong emperor.
Artwork Details
- Title: Plaque with dragon, pheasant, quail, and other birds amidst bamboo and plum blossom
- Period: Qing dynasty (1644–1911)
- Date: late 19th century
- Culture: China
- Medium: Ivory with pigment
- Dimensions: H. 6 1/8 in. (15.6 cm); W. 21 1/2 in. (54.6 cm); D. 7/8 in. (2.2 cm)
- Classification: Ivories
- Credit Line: Gift of Florence A. Schilling, in memory of Ernest J. Schilling, 1963
- Object Number: 63.133.2
- Curatorial Department: Asian Art
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