A Chinese hardstone-inlaid wood 'Chang'e' table screen, 19th century, the central reserve decorated with inlaid hardstone depicting Chang'e floating up towards the moon as Hou Yi cries out below, the outer border decorated with bats flying amongst...

A Chinese hardstone-inlaid wood 'Chang'e' table screen, 19th century, the central reserve decorated with inlaid hardstone depicting Chang'e floating up towards the moon as Hou Yi cries out below, the outer border decorated with bats flying amongst flowering peonies and leafy stems, 82.5cm high Note: Chang'e is known in Chinese mythology for stealing an elixir of immortality from her husband Hou Yi, and in doing so becoming the Moon Goddess. Hou Yi was awarded the elixir by Xi Wangmu after displaying his impressive archery skills. After Chang'e stole and consumed the elixir, she began to float up into the sky. When Hou Yi realised his wife was not in bed with him, he ran out to find Chang'e drifting up towards the moon.
品相報告 Condition Report: Some areas with missing hardstone inlay - notably to the tree trunk. A large crack to the wood running down the centre of the panel, as can be seen in the main photo. Old marks to the wood, now smoothed with age. Some wear to the corners and edges of the panel, with some possible old repairs.