Carving: Mountain

"A Chinese bamboo mountain, carved in the round in high relief with open work in a continuous design of birds, animals, and figures including Kuan Ti, late 18th c, 11”H. Kuan Ti is the God of War, patron of literature and upholder of justice. Even after death, he is thought to have exerted a powerful influence for the protection of the country. He was given the title of God posthumously. Kuan Ti is amongst the most popular Chinese divinities. He was one of three brothers who raised an army to suppress a rebellion during the time of the Three Kingdoms. He was a supporter of the Liu Pei, the Emperor of the Han dynasty. Kuan Ti is the patron saint of various trades and professions and is the tutelary deity of money making projects. Eventually he became a patron saint of wealth." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 2003.

Sotheby’s, London, 11/14/2002, Sale WO2833, Lot #267, carved bamboo mountain, 18th c, 8”H. Christie’s, New York, Sale BAOYU-1113, 9/20/2002, Lot #147, bamboo mountain carving, 11”H, late 17th / early 18th c.