Chinese Carved Panel Depicting Female Figure

Little wooden door panel that kept a whole garden party inside its carving.

This carved panel depicting a female figure is from China, and dates to the 19th century. It is elmwood. Carved wooden panels were used in Chinese houses, temples and furniture, often showing figures from legend, theater or daily life in relief. A square framed panel in dark reddish-brown tone, topped by a pierced band of scrolling shapes and a bright hanging loop. The central panel carves a standing figure beside a pavilion with trees. A scalloped apron sits below, and the finish is worn glossy. It is 14.13 inches wide, 1 deep and 16.25 high.

Small stage, big cast, and the curtain never comes down.