A MASSIVE CHINESE HARDWOOD 'CHILONG' SCREEN

QING DYNASTY OR LATER

Probably in zitan, the rectangular panel set with many bronze cat-like chilong scrambling amongst naturalistically formed gnarled rootwood, with stylised swirling clouds to the reverse, the scene contained within a hardwood frame carved to the sides with archaistic scrolls, the wood stand similarly decorated with archaistic motifs, the ends carved with vases containing chrysanthemum blooms and fruiting peaches above finger citron, 74cm x 76cm overall. (2)

Cf. The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum, Furniture of the Ming and Qing Dynasties (II), p.197, no.172 for a slightly smaller screen carved with a very similar stand and decorated with inlaid jade figures to the deep panel.