![00e0d4debc3721ee8fd4b50227b5aa1e]()
![0f64911de5630adf4e2fb12fa64e3e91]()
![3e1c321a0d5ab4481585df6f475c5d74]()
![3e5f0a9d8e027faffdbe1215d1379951]()
A huanghuali corner-leg painting table (huazhuo), 17th century. Photo Sotheby's
of rectangular outline, the single board top within a wide mitered frame with a triple-cushion-molded edge, on legs of circular section joined by an arched and molded stretcher, enclosing interlocked double-ring struts, the underside with five transverse stretchers Height 34 in., 86.5 cm; Width 88 in., 223.5 cm; Depth 29 in., 73.6 cm. Estimation 250,000 — 350,000 USD
Provenance: C.L. Ma Antiques, Hong Kong, April 1990.
Painting tables are distinguished by their large size, particularly the depth, creating a generous surface for free, unimpeded movement by the artist. The design of the present lot is inspired by nature and archaism, its softy rounded edges imitating the bamboo or cane furniture seen in Song Dynasty painting. The use of a rare and expensive hardwood in imitation of a humbler material speaks to the high-minded refinement expected of a Ming scholar. The painting table was the most important piece of furniture in the scholar’s studio and placed in a central position in the room. Wang Shixiang, discussing the form notes that “the popular arrangement for all tables was with one end against a window where abundant natural light made writing, painting or reading a more pleasant exercise. In this position, the opposite side could also be used by an assistant to hold the sheet of a paper or for some other purpose. It was also common to place these tables in a room, away from walls, with or without chairs.” Connoisseurship of Chinese Furniture, vol. 1, Hong Kong, 1990, p. 68. Evolving from a low and small portable form seen in Five Dynasties’ paintings, this grand, impressive table was designed to be functional for painting but also aesthetically admirable with a bare surface or used for display.
Craig Clunas, Superfluous Things, Material Culture and Social Status in Early Modern China, Honolulu, 1991, quotes an extract from Wen Zhengheng‘s famous Treatise on Superfluous Things of about 1615-1620 from Chapter 6: Tables and Couches, “natural tables are made of some grained wood such as huali, tieli or xiangan. The length should not exceed eight feet, nor the thickness of the top five inches. The end flanges must not be too sharp, but smooth and rounded, which is the antique pattern…..In moments of pleasant relaxations they would spread out classic or historical texts, examine works of calligraphy or painting or display ancient bronze vessels.” (p. 42). Tables of this size are very rare. For related examples see Wang Shixiang, Connoisseurship of Chinese Furniture, vol. 2, Hong Kong, 1990, B108; Robert H. Ellsworth, Chinese Hardwood Furniture in Hawaiian Collections, Honolulu, Academy of Arts, 1982, pl. 34 and Grace Wu Bruce, Ming Furniture Selections from Hong Kong & London Gallery, Winter 2000-2001, no. 6.
Sotheby's.Fine Chinese Ceramics & Works of Art.New York | 18 mars 2014 - www.sothebys.com
