Carved Wooden Base For Bi Disc. China Qing Period 19th Century Or Before.

The base is made up of several small wooden parts finely cut with flowers, scrolls and Greek motifs. The majority of the wood is dark brown, almost black, small inserted panels are made of boxwood, the barriers are made of bone. These barriers were tinted green, a color today almost completely erased by light and time, however more pronounced shades of green remain in the most sheltered places. This barrier is carved with plum blossoms, bamboo stems and pine needles. These 3 plants, represented together, are called the 3 friends in China and are symbols of the essential qualities of the scholar. This precious base must therefore have been the property of a scholar and must have supported a jade Bi disc or an archaic bronze mirror. Chinese work from the Qing period late 18th century around 1800. Good condition, however there are small losses visible in photos. A bone barrier is missing. 26x24x10cm. This base is designed for a disc with a diameter of 255mm.