Lot description
Property of a Gentleman An exceptional and massive zitan 'dragon' compound cabinet, Qing dynasty, Kangxi period 士紳收藏 清康熙 御製紫檀雲龍紋雙聯頂箱櫃 of rectangular form, the main constructed with four zitan panels forming the front doors, each of the two narrower outer panels superbly carved with two dragons writhing sinuously in pursuit of a flaming pearl amidst ruyi-shaped cloud scrolls and above tumultuous waves, one panel further carved with an iris spray above an umbrella and victory banner, the other with a peony spray above an endless knot and a carp, flanking the two central and broader panels, each exceptionally and deeply carved with a ferocious en face dragon soaring above a 'flaming pearl' and a further writhing dragon, against a ground densely carved with clusters of ruyi-shaped cloud scrolls and above tempestuous crashing waves, further decorated with a beribboned vase and flowering lotus blossoms, all above a horizontal panel densely carved with ruyi-shaped cloud scrolls, the edges of the exterior and central panels fitted with gilt-bronze hinges decorated with cloud motifs, the edges of the central panels with further gilt-bronze plates and door pulls decorated in low relief with bats and chimes, the top cabinets similarly carved in meticulous detail with the dragon motif overall 210 by 56 by h. 372 cm
