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A commanding pair of intricately hand-carved Chinese hardwood wall panels, each rendered in deep relief and framed by a bamboo-form border. These richly detailed compositions depict vases overflowing with blossoming branches, curling ribbons, fruiting vines, scholarly scrolls, and auspicious emblems, flanked at the base by playful guardian figures. At the top, stylized dragons or qilin-like creatures form a protective arch, while the deeply recessed background enhances the three-dimensional effect. The imagery is steeped in traditional symbolism. Bamboo represents resilience and integrity, while plum blossoms, often carved in full bloom, signify perseverance and renewal. The vase (ping) is a visual pun for peace, and the scrolls and books symbolize scholarly pursuits and cultural refinement. Grapes and hanging fruits convey abundance and prosperity, while the paired guardian figures suggest protection and good fortune. Carved from a warm-toned hardwood, likely elm or camphor, the panels display a rich patina earned over decades. The reverse shows original joinery and later hanging hardware, allowing them to be displayed as impressive wall art. Likely dating from the late 19th century, these panels were originally made as decorative architectural elements, perhaps for a scholar’s study or reception hall. Their artistry, scale, and symbolic content make them as meaningful as they are visually arresting, appealing to collectors and decorators alike. Very good condition for age with a strong visual presence. One panel has a warp, and the other shows separation at the lower right-facing side where the frame meets the carving. Additional age-appropriate wear includes nicks, light surface cracks, and some loss and finish variations. Both remain structurally sound and display beautifully. Each panel measures about: 18ʺ wide × 2.25ʺ deep × 49.5ʺ high.
