HC-002
Chinese Architectural Carved Shutters, Set of Four
Set of four hand-carved architectural window panels
China
Solid carved wood, Traces of gilt or gold paint
Each panel 18.5 in (47 cm) wide × 48 in (122 cm) high; full set approx. 74 in (188 cm) wide × 48 in (122 cm) high
Description
A set of four solid-wood architectural panels, originally produced as window or partition elements and later mounted together as a single wall installation before being separated into their individual components. Each panel combines hand-carved figural scenes, floral and botanical elements, geometric latticework and narrative relief.
The carving is pierced entirely through the panel rather than routed into the surface, and the central figural scenes are worked in multiple depths to produce a three-dimensional effect. Traces of what appears to be old gilt or gold paint remain in the recessed areas.
Catalogue Note
The relief has genuine depth and the figures are individually modelled rather than repeated from a single machine-cut motif. The open fretwork retains crisp interior corners, and the frame members are substantial solid wood assembled with mitred corners from multiple pieces rather than carved from a single board.
Condition
Previously mounted as one wall installation and since carefully separated into four individual panels; residual mounting adhesive is present on the reverse. Very good vintage condition with age-related wear and patina consistent with architectural salvage, including a long vertical crack to one stile and natural shrinkage of the wood.