SOLD Antique Latticework Cupboard Door, Auspicious Symbols, China (

Description

This antique open-work panel, probably a cupboard door, may be pine or elm but possibly is a finer hardwood due to its durability, fine grain, and ability to hold intricate detail. It is filled with carved well-recognized auspicious symbols. Intricately carved with a warm patina, it is composed of 3 sections – upper, central, and lower panels framed by a wooden border. The top and bottom geometric patterns set off the intricate lattice and imagery in the center.

The central lattice openwork is called Chinese “fret” design in which the background is removed, making the floral and plant motifs appear to float within the frame. These symbolic fretwork motifs were often combined with geometric patterns and relief figural scenes  to reinforce their symbolic meanings, commonly used in the late Qing Dynasty. Lattice fret work was often associated with the Chinese concept of the “Four Gentlemen. In Confucian and Taoist beliefs, the Four Gentlemen reflect the harmonious coexistence of humans with nature.  They are associated with the progression of the seasons of year depicted as specific flowers and signify that harmony is found through aligning oneself with the inevitable cycles of change. Plum blossoms symbolize winter, the season of perseverance and hope; orchids are spring representing grace and  purity; bamboo is summer embodying vitality, uprightness, and strength and Chrysanthemums are autumn, a time of serenity.  These seasonal plants are likened to a “gentleman” a person of high moral character who remains steadfast regardless of external circumstances.

The small, five-petaled floral shape integrated in the scrolling motifs around the central square are plum blossoms which bloom in cold weather, reflecting the ability to maintain integrity in the “harsh seasons” of life. The linear fret work represents stylized bamboo stalks and leaves indicating modesty and an open mind.

The detailed central carving is a wish for purity, harmony, marital happiness and a prosperous life. The lotuses symbolize purity and moral integrity, a metaphor for remaining unblemished and virtuous despite the challenging environment. Birds are associated with freedom, good blessings, and hope and when paired with a heron symbolize marital affection and fidelity, thus conveying wishes for a harmonious and happy marriage.

The open-winged bats, represent good fortune and happiness as the Chinese word for “bat” (fú) is a homophone for the word for “blessing” or “good fortune” (fú).  Four bats represent the blessings associated with a fulfilling life:  longevity, wealth/ prosperity, health/peace of mind and love of virtue/high moral standards. This grouping bestows these comprehensive blessings upon the household and the open wings emphasize that these blessings are “flying in” or arriving in abundance.

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