ZHAN GUSHENG: MINIATURE BOAT WITH PASSENGERS AND A LONG POEM
This artist was famous for his extreme miniature works and lived from 1802 to 1876 in the Southern province Guangdong in Zengcheng. The incredible thing about this work – next to the intricacy of the miniature carving in a natural hard olive stone – is the ability to carve calligraphy script in such abnormal minuteness! See the poem on the bottom!
The ship has a curved body and round roof with many windows, some are open, some have sashes which can be opened. Passengers are scattered, their heads peeking out from all possible places. Ornamental design on all places in between. The largest of this type I have seen with 4 FOUR opening windows instead of the more common TWO. Again more passengers, in total 36 with 8 looking at the moon on the top.
The long inscription in 7 vertical lines originates from the classical poem Qian Qibi Fu 前 赤壁 賦 by Su Shi 蘇 軾 (11th cent.), also called Dongpo, a highly respected poet and official. The "Red Rock" (Qibi) became famous through the Battle of 208, lost by Cao Cao, who struggled to attain power, and thus opened the way to the division of China in three parts, in Sanguo (Three Kingdoms).
This idiosyncratic miniature carving is signed after the poetry lines on the bottom ZHAN GU-SHENG zuo 湛 谷生 作 (made by ...). Included is a very rare original miniature wooden base with wave design and blossoms.
Wonderful antique condition. Possibly a loss to what may have been a very rare rudder. Not entirely clear as I've not seen one with a rudder before.
Boat measures approx 48mm long, 21mm wide & 21mm high. Stand measures approx 37mm long, 20mm wide and 15mm high.
Free UK postage.
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