Pair of carved Ivory figural boxes, chinese XIXth

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Pair of carved Ivory figural boxes, chinese XIXth

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Sold Date: 04/03/2008
Channel: Online Auction
Source: eBay
Category: Ethnic, Folk & Native American Art

Attention collectors - this is a precious find for the lover of antique scholar's' items! This is a highly elegant pair of figural ivory boxes carved as quails resting on millet. Each bird consists of a separable base and lid and on the inside we find an indentation shaped as a double gourd - most certainly for resting brushes.

This outstanding pair of lidded figural ivory boxes showcases a stout quail each and dates back to China in the 19th century.
The upper part of the bird functions as the lid and it is meticulously carved and very thin. The plumage is delicately rendered, the beak is open revealing the tongue and the eyes are inlaid with dark horn enhancing the naturalistic appearance even further. The base is masterly carved even on the underside w we find the feet and the millet which is shown on the front is continued t as well.
Inside the base part is an irregular indentation shaped as a double gourd, a classical Chinese symbol for longevity. Most certainly these stunning vessels w used on a scholar's desk for resting brushes.

They are in near perfect condition. T is a small chip on one of the quail's tail feathers on the base. You can see this in photo No. 7 on the piece in the left.

An Identical pair sold for 5000 dollars 2 years ago on ebay. If you are an Ivory collector, you know that prices have gone up in the last year. This is a great opportunity. Dont miss out on it!!

A quail is a traditional Asian symbol for protectiveness and group harmony.

SIZE: Length of each box alone is 4.3 inches . Height of each box alone is 3 inches.
SHIPPING: The shipping quote is not correct . This boxes will be shipped from Mexico, so if you need an estimate please contact me before the end of auction, I will use the shipping method you want, no extra charge, if needed I will email you a copy of the shipping invoice.