Original price
GBP £ 1795
Converted price
Description
Gansu, circa 1850
These wonderful painted wooden panels are made from fir wood and originate from the border of Gansu province and Tibet, where they were made in the mid nineteenth century. Each set within a moulded red lacquer frame, the central panels were once in vivid colours but are now faded to beautiful, soft reds browns and blues against a cream background that has darkened over the years. The paintings are still clear and on the first panel depict various auspicious Buddhist symbols that include the wheel of life at the bottom, with fish for good fortune and an 'eternal knot' for longevity. The second panel depicts the four harmonious friends - an elephant, monkey, hare and bird, alongside their fruit tree. This is a popular scene in Buddhist art, taken from the story told by the Buddha to teach unity and cooperation. Sold as a pair, the price shown is for the two panels.
Last updated: 24/01/19