Large antique Chinese Qing dynasty red coral specimen
£7,500
This red coral specimen, with flowing lines and organic form, is a beautiful example of how the work of nature can be, and has been, celebrated as art.
The Chinese red coral specimen is in natural form and is mounted onto a wooden base.
Coral collecting and carving is an ancient Chinese tradition. Figures, groups and jewellery carved in coral were often produced for members of the Chinese nobility. Decorative carvings and specimens, like the one displayed here, became especially popular during the Qing dynasty (1644-1912), and were revered for their fine red colour as well as for the preciousness of the material.