Carving: Pomegranate Group

"A rare and fine Chinese bamboo carving of a pomegranate group, 4 1/2 inches high x 3 3/4 inches wide, consisting of a large and small pomegranate, the larger pomegranate alighted with a cicada. This finely detailed carving has openwork in the form of a gnarled branch and curling foliage, with the exposed seeds, stalk and buds masterfully carved. This carving dates from Qing Dynasty, 18th century. The fruit of the pomegranate is cultivated in China and has been represented in fine and decorative arts. The pomegranate is an auspicious symbol of fertility with many offspring represented by its numerous seeds. In Buddhist art, the pomegranate represents the essence of favorable influences. The cicada, whether larva or fully grown has been a subject found in Chinese fine and decorative arts. The cicada emerges at harvest time, making an unmistakable shrilling noise with its wings. It is an auspicious insect which represents fertility." - Bernie McManus, Appraiser, Woodbury House, Connecticut, 7/22/2010

Christie’s Hong Kong sale #2625, Decmeber 3, 2008, lot #2310. A Rare Bamboo ‘Pomegranate” Group, Qing Dynasty, 18th century.