A CARVED ZITAN TABLE SCREEN

细节
A CARVED ZITAN TABLE SCREEN
QIANLONG

Decorated on one side of the rectangular panel in high relief with an elaborate rockwork landscape comprising a large pine tree, a cassia tree and bamboo among a thick floral undergrowth, beneath stylised clouds and against rocky mountains, the reverse with a lengthy Imperial inscription entitled Wufu Song, 'Eulogy of the Five Blessings', age cracks
16 x 13.5 in. (40.7 x 34.3 cm.), stand

拍品专文

As revealed in the text, the eulogy was composed by Emperor Qianlong on the subject matter of the 'five blessings': longevity, wealth, health, virtue and to finish the allotted life span.

Qianlong mentioned his three reverend ancestors (Shunzhi, Kangxi, Yongzheng) who, through their worship of Buddhism and conscientious effort in governing the people, provided peace within the provinces and over a wide territory. Qianlong believed his predecessors had set a standard example; and that health, peace, prosperity were all derived from virtue and righteous thinking.

The eulogy continues to proclaim, despite Qianlong having only acheived four out of the five blessings, virtuous rule of the monarchy must require good guidance from ministers so that justice could be served to his ancestors. After 60 years' in power, Qianlong felt the need to abdicate in respect of his grandfather, Kangxi, by not exceeding the latter's years of rule as emperor.

The text ends with 'respectfully written by your servant Yu Minzhong (1714-1779)', followed by two artists' seals.

(US$16,000-24,000)