Antique Chinese Ivory Carving
Emperor Empress
Qing Dynesty Court Costume
Dated: Quan Long. Circa: early 20th century
h.7 in.(18cm), w.2 in.(5cm), d.1.6 in.(4cm)
Measurement not including wood plinth
Condition: excellent!

Finely carved and intricately etched elephant tusks Chinese emperor and empress. This matching royal couple wear elaborately decorated Ming style dress. The emperor holds his beard while the other hand tucks behind his back, his long hair extending well below his waist. A masculine dragon themed jacket extends from top to bottom, including the scabbard of the sword hanging from his side. The empress’ pien-fu is decorated with an elegant phoenix motif, also realized through her headdress, a bird resting in the folds of her coiffured hair. In her right hand she holds a Joo-I, and in the other feminine fingers lightly hold a skillfully carved through rope. Both pieces are beautifully cream colored, and in excellent condition.

Sold to Private Collection