Antique Chinese Carved Zitan Wood Display Stand | Unique Art Display Base

Dimensions: 1-3/8”h x 3-3/8”w x 2-3/4”d

Offered is a wonderful small stand made of Zitan to present a special object. deep relief hand-carved stand in an integrated free form-shaped with deep carved sides that mimics the base of a tree. The top of the stand shows a cluster of flowers or pine needles on one portion of the top to add a decorative touch. The interior of the top surface is recessed and most likely followed the shape of the previous object displayed. This upper portion leave enough flat areas to support other decorative objects. The sides are deeply sculpted to look as if it is part of a forest. The rest is sculpted with different textures that make it look like an outdoor scene. The majority of these miniaturized stands were hewn from a single block of hardwood in order to facilitate intricate carving.

Historical Information: By the late Ming period, the pairing of objects to stands of suitable style and size had become an important aesthetic objective for centuries after. Beautiful stand forms such as the piece offered were made from a wide variety of materials, including elder, ash, birch, beech, camphor. Rosewood and zitan which are also included in this group are the preferred because of their unique and decorative effect, which became the most recognizable kind and a great deal of influence  on modern people’s evaluation of quality woodworking.   

Condition: This piece is excellent and expertly carved with a smoothed perfection, showcasing the skillful artistry of the maker.