Each year during Asia Week New
Chinese recessed-leg tables are typically constructed with a top that is a thin but highly figured panel set into a frame. This is in turn supported by double-legs at each end, joined by a carved and pierced decorative panel. This table is unusual in the use of a solid plank for the top composed of highly figured huanghuali.
Huanghuali is rarely found in wide and thick planks. This old-growth material was harvested at an early date and subsequent harvesting was restricted to smaller diameter trees. This table was purchased by the owners family in China during the 1930s or 40s while serving as American diplomats. The pre-sale estimate is $150,000-250,000.
Ju Ming (born 1938), an artist whose sculptural works often depict tai chi practitioners, is based in Taiwan. His raw, chiseled sculptures are tightly constructed and energetic. His subjects carry political overtones and have found audiences in China, Taiwan, and internationally. This sculpture depicts Zhang Fei, one of the heroes of the Three Kingdoms novel. Ju Ming is still continuing to produce works. The example offered is unusual and early and is estimated at $80,000-120,000.
Chinese carved lacquer has a storied past that extends back over 2000 years. The pair of boxes in this sale are from the 18th or 19th century. They depict idealized rural scenes with figures among mountainous landscapes with pavilions and foliage. Beautifully carved boxes of this type rarely are found in pairs and are estimated at $7,000-10,000.
Jadeite, a material first used in Chinese works of art during the 18th century, is noted for the brilliance of green, russet, and lavender tones incorporated into naturalistic carvings. This deep-bodied censer is a fine example of jadeite wth a range of hues from light to bright green. Estimated at $40,000-60,000, the censer is expected to garner significant interest from bidders.
