One of the highlights of Sotheby’s Asian works of art sale in Paris on December 11 will be this jade, zitan and boxwood panel from the Qianlong period, estimate €150,000-200,000.
Image: Sotheby’s/ArtDigital Studio
Carved wood hanging screens or panels that were used to decorate halls and rooms in the Forbidden City were first produced in the Kangxi period but peaked in popularity during the Qianlong era.
This example, adorned with a mountainous landscape dotted with trees and pagodas, measures 2ft 4in x 3ft 4in (71cm x 1m). It is particularly notable for the extensive use of the valuable zitan hardwood which was the favoured timber of the Ming and Qing Court.
It was acquired by the grandmother of the vendor in France during the 1920s and has passed down by descent. The estimate is €150,000-200,000.
