Chinese Lacquer Wall Panels (Mother of Pearl Inlay Panels)
Other (Wall Decor/Decorative Arts) · Chinoiserie / Qing Dynasty Revival Style (Mid-20th Century) · Unknown Workshop; typically produced in regions like Guangdong or Hong Kong for export
Type
Other (Wall Decor/Decorative Arts)
Style Period
Chinoiserie / Qing Dynasty Revival Style (Mid-20th Century)
Material
Lacquered wood panels, mother of pearl (nacre), soapstone or jadeite relief carvings, and brass hanging hardware
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1980
Dimensions
Approximately 36 inches high by 12 inches wide each; panels appear vertically elongated
Origin
China; widely exported to the West during the 1960s-1980s
Designer/Maker
Unknown Workshop; typically produced in regions like Guangdong or Hong Kong for export
Value Estimate
$200 - $600 for the full set of four, depending on the venue and buyer interest
Description
A set of four vertical decorative panels depicting the 'Four Beauties' or various scenes of courtly life. The black lacquer serves as a stark, elegant background for the shimmering mother-of-pearl borders and the three-dimensional stone-carved figures.
Key Features
Raised relief figures, iridescent shell inlay, black lacquer finish, and traditional brass top hangers
Color & Finish
High-gloss black lacquer finish with white and iridescent shell highlights and polychrome stone figures
Construction Method
Hand-applied lacquer over wood base with raised relief carvings and shell inlay; mass-produced for the export market
Joinery & Craftsmanship
Mitred frame corners with inset panels; craftsmanship is consistent with 20th-century decorative export quality
Wood Grain & Species
Concealed by heavy lacquer, likely use of secondary woods like elm, pine, or luan
Surface Treatment
Black lacquer ground featuring mother-of-pearl floral borders and high-relief stone appliques depicting court scenes
Upholstery Details
None
Hardware & Fittings
Traditional Chinese brass ruyi-head or pagoda-style hangers attached to the top of each frame
Origin & Provenance
China; widely exported to the West during the 1960s-1980s
Condition Notes
Good; visible dust and minor surface wear typical for age. Stone appliques appear intact without major chipping
Interesting Facts
Sets of four typically represent the four seasons or four virtues in Chinese iconography
Cultural Significance
Represents the mid-century Western fascination with 'Orientale' and Chinoiserie interior design trends
Similar Pieces
Coromandel screens (incised rather than raised) and cinnabar lacquer panels (red and carved)
Care & Maintenance
Dust with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid harsh chemicals or excessive humidity which can cause lacquer to crack
Value Estimate
$200 - $600 for the full set of four, depending on the venue and buyer interest
Sustainability Notes
Represent a durable, long-lasting decorative item made from natural shell and stone materials