Lot 285
  • 285

A HUANGHUALI RECESSED-LEG TABLE (QIAOTOUAN) MING DYNASTY, 17TH CENTURY

Estimate
30,000 - 50,000 USD
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Description

  • HUANGHUALI WOOD
the rectangular single flush panel within a mitered, mortise and tenon frame of typical construction, the short sides inset with rounded everted flanges, the top supported underneath by two transverse stretchers, above a straight apron continuing to lively openwork scrolling spandrels flanking the rectangular section legs with beaded edges and centered by a double-line molding, joined on the short sides by a large rectangular openwork ruyi-head panel, all supported on slightly arched slab feet

Provenance

Alice Boney Collection (according to label).
Sotheby's New York, 11th May 1978, lot 308.
H. Woods Wilson, London.

Condition

The end aprons have been replaced. There are patches and repaired splits to the spandrels. There are patches to inside of two legs. There is some splitting to the lower section of one of the openwork side panels. The has been general consolidation to the joints and it is possible that the table has been reduced somewhat in length.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Catalogue Note

Narrow, tall tables with everted ends, inset carved panels and recessed legs with shoe feet comprise one of the most classic of Ming dynasty designs. The upturned ends provide an effective visual counterpoint to the long straight lines of the basic form. Additionally the curvilinear spandrels and carved panels serve to both soften and enliven the angular lines of the design. It has been noted that the distinctive curve of the flanges, like so much of Chinese furniture design, is inspired by architecture, specifically the characteristic upward sweep of the tiled roof. For more on this read Sarah Handler, Ming Furniture in the Light of Chinese Architecture, Berkeley, 2004, pp. 140-153.

Stands and tables of this form have long been associated with ritualistic use. By the late Ming dynasty, Wen Zhenheng, famous arbiter of scholarly taste and author of the influential Treatise on Superfluous Things comments that such tables should be used for Buddhist offerings. The prominent rise of the short rails would be an obstacle for functions such as calligraphy or painting but would nicely frame a formal display.