Polychrome carved wood panel, China, 18th-19th century

Polychrome carved wooden panel, China, 18th-19th century

Decorative panel carved in wood and polychromed in red, gold and black, showing three traditional male figures in robes of Confucian or Daoist inspiration, with long beards, in hieratic poses. The figures are framed by stylised foliate elements and scrolling motifs characteristic of Chinese architectural decoration of the late Qing period (circa 1700-1900).

The decoration shows a scene of classical inspiration, possibly associated with the iconography of the Three Star Lords (Fu, Lu, Shou), symbols of prosperity, career and longevity, frequently found in Chinese ornamental carving. The colours are applied over a preparatory ground, with gold leaf in the reliefs and a red background, a technique specific to decorative panels intended for temples, clan houses or prestigious furniture of the period.

State of preservation:
According to the image supplied, the piece shows surface wear, flaking of the polychrome layer, partial losses of gilding and possible microcracks in the wood, consistent with the stated age. There appear to be no major modern restoration interventions.

Dimensions: 36 × 16,5 cm