Chinese Zitan "Xiangji" Table, 18th Century

18世紀 紫檀香幾 A Chinese Zitan wood table dating from the 18th century. The rectangular top composed of two wide boards set within a frame and supported by transverse stretchers, the panelled top above a widely flaring waist, the apron carved with well executed ruyi heads, the slender cabriole legs terminating in ruyi heads, all supported by a rectangular stretcher on bracket feet. Masterfully carved and polished to a lustrous finish, this elegant stand displays the technical virtuosity of 18th century wood carvers. Zitan was the most precious and highly esteemed timber available to the master craftsmen working in the Muzuo (Wood Workshop) belonging to the Zaobanchu (Imperial Palace Workshop). With its jade-like silky texture, extremely fine and dense grain, and subtle and deep lustre, zitan was the favourite timber of the Ming and Qing courts. Its long growth period combined with its limited availability, growing mainly in the southern regions of Guangdong and Guangxi provinces, made it especially valuable. By the Qing dynasty, excessive felling of zitan led to the exhaustion of its supply in China, and by the Qianlong reign, special measures were taken by the court to protect, monitor and restrict the use of zitan to the Palace Workshops.拍品來自新澤西Mah先生, 這些藏品為其父親在1949年前在上海購藏，此後在家中傳承。

Dimensions are: 39 1/2 inches tall X 33 1/2 inches wide X 17 1/2 inches deep. All measurements are approximate.

Condition: It is in overall good condition with minor wear and cracking due to humidity. There are a few small chips and areas of loss.

Provenance: From Mr. Mah in New Jersey, whose father acquired the collection in China prior to 1949. An incense stand also made of Zitan and dating from the same time period sold at Sotheby's London May 14, 2014 lot 37.

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