Carved Hornbill - China - 19th Century

A rare and remarkable taxidermied hornbill head, its beak sculpted with exquisite finesse and richly decorated with a high-relief scene depicting Chinese opera actors performing before architecturally designed pavilions, populated by figures and children amidst a vibrant setting. The piece rests on a carved and openwork wooden base, adorned with floral and fruit motifs, specially designed for its display. A decorative work of exceptional quality, reflecting the 19th-century Chinese taste for narrative and symbolic scenes. Condition: Losses and wear visible in photos. Regulatory information: Carved hornbill skull, worked specimen, antique (over 50 years old), excluding ivory. Sale authorized without a CITES certificate in accordance with Article 62.3 and Article 2(w) of Regulation (EC) No. 338/97 (information received from the DREAL PACA).