Exquisite Domestic Altar With Wooden Figurines (19th Century)

This decorative wooden household altar dates from the late Qing dynasty and is finished with a vibrant red lacquer.

The altar features a raised platform surrounded by an intricately carved balustrade. The upper pediment is adorned with openwork carvings. At the center is a large seated figure, flanked by two smaller figures. Depending on the altar's function, these figures may represent gods or ancestral beings. The carvings are highly detailed, with motifs that often carry symbolic meaning. Dragons, phoenixes, and floral patterns symbolize power, rebirth, and purity, respectively. The presence of such refined detail testifies to the craftsmanship of this period.

These altars were a central point for rituals, where offerings were often made and incense burned to show respect to the gods or deceased family members—an essential element of the Chinese ritual of ancestor worship. This object therefore represents an important element of the cultural heritage and illustrates the spiritual traditions deeply rooted in the country.