A CARVED 'HEHE ERXIAN' HONGMU STAND QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

the wood of a chestnut-brown tone, deftly carved in the round as the Hehe Erxian in loose-fitting robes, holding between them a round box and cover with swirls of mist emitting from the slightly opened box on either side, rising to form the crescent-shape stand decorated with scrolling clouds

Apart from a minute chip to the hem of the left Hehe's robe on the reverse and a few minor surface scratches, the stand is overall in very good condition. The actual colour of the patina is of a somewhat deeper reddish-brown tone than the illustration would suggest in the catalogue.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Fashioned from the attractive hongmu wood, the present hand-mirror stand is of exceptional carving and sculptural quality. It was made to hold a flat circular bronze mirror with an integral handle. The depiction of the Hehe Erxian is full of auspicious symbolism, with the twin brothers representing harmony and unity.

A small boxwood carving of the Hehe Erxian was offered at Christie’s New York, 21st September 2004, lot 47; and a much larger gilt-wood Hehe twin group sculpture was offered in our New York rooms, 18th/19th September 2007, lot 102.