Qing dynasty, 17th/18th century
China

length: 16 cm

The bamboo is carved as a group of four horizontal lotus leaves, one on top of the other, with cut stems and a single flower – and this composition rests on a carved zitan stand that fits the complicated shape perfectly. A small crab is perched on the top leaf next to a stem of grass heavy with seed that has flopped onto the surface; an insect is crawling under an upturned corner, and a small snail is attached to the underside of one of the lower leaves. The whole scene is depicted with great realism and minutiae of detail. The mood of the stand is in contrast to the peace of the lotus group; it is carved as a turbulent and swirling current of water, and placed on an irregular shaped base inlaid with silver wire, resting upon four shaped feet. The weight of the heavy zitan stand also contrasts with, and complements, the light and delicate nature of the bamboo group.

similar examples
‘Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings – The Complete Collection of Treasures from the Palace Museum’, 2001 – no. 9 illustrates a bamboo incense holder with carving very much in the same spirit; no. 8 is a cup carved as a lotus leaf and small crab; and no. 41 shows a leaf-shaped washer.