Finely Carved Ivory Imperial Junk, Decorated With Fifty-four Figures – Canton

Imperial Junk in Carved Ivory – Canton, Late 19th Century A majestic miniature vessel, this finely carved Chinese junk in ivory exemplifies the mastery of Cantonese craftsmanship at the end of the 19th century. Animated by thirty-one figures—navigators, dignitaries, musicians, and attendants—each portrayed in an expressive posture, it evokes a scene of imperial or ceremonial life, frozen in the refinement of a centuries-old artistic tradition.

The body of the ship is richly adorned with openwork balustrades, lattice windows, and curved-roof pavilions, showcasing remarkable technical virtuosity. Slender masts topped with delicate pennants punctuate the vertical composition, while the finely engraved sails lend a sense of lightness to the ensemble.

The junk rests upon a carved wooden base that mimics the movement of waves, enhancing the illusion of travel and imbuing the piece with poetic dynamism. This base, both pedestal and frame, elevates the work while emphasizing its narrative character.

Provenance: Canton workshop, southern China, circa 1880–1890
Materials: Carved ivory, lacquered wood
Dimensions: Length 27 cm, Width 4 cm, Height 17.5 cm