Vintage Chinese Carved Mother-of-Pearl Shell, Birds & Flowers, with Hardwood Stand & Original Satin Box

A natural mother-of-pearl shell, about 20 cm, carved right through into a lacework of birds among bamboo, peony and blossom. Turn it to the light and the whole surface shifts colour. This is the patient sort of export handwork that used to come home in a suitcase, and it has survived with both its carved wood stand and its original silk-lined box, which alone tells you it was once a gift. I can find no damage. A quiet, pretty thing for a shelf or a cabinet of curiosities.

• Era / Stylemid to late 20th century export handicraft
• MaterialMother-of-pearl shell; carved wood stand; fabric-lined cardboard box
• TypeDecorative
• Dimensions19 cm (W) x 22 cm (H) with stand
• CategoryDecorative

Every piece is documented and sold as seen. Ask us anything before you buy.