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Description:
Ref:   160fs    http://hygra.com/face/160fs 

Pair of Antique Face Screens in wood with penwork and polychrome Chinoiserie decoration. C1815

 The screens are a pair, but each one depicts a different scene within the same genre framed by differing designs, which are of identical stylistic aesthetic. 

They are a tour de force of design orchestration and execution. 

Although in the Chinoiserie tradition of exoticism, the figures are Moorish rather than Chinese. At the time of painting these screens, the precise location of countries and the nature of their people anywhere east of Constantinople, was not understood by Europeans. The term “ Cathay ” was loosely used to describe the mythic lands of the East.

The framing of the main pictures has one feature in common, the punctuating of the corners by four butterflies. These provide the starting point for a series of swirls and lines which form precise spaces which are in turn filled with diaper patterns characteristic of traditional Chinese decoration. Outside the patterns, delicate flowers connect the framing with the main picture, softening the symmetrical surround and introducing the jolly, colourful, moving figures.

One of the screens depicts a man of importance in splendid dress, sitting on cushions, while a man of lesser rank appears to be introducing a beautiful girl. Is there a hint of harem activity?   : --  A fascinating topic for the Europeans.

On the other scene the oriental figures are dancing to music played on exotic (at the time) instruments. There are smiling faces in this scene and also movement. The spectacular clothes are enhanced with gold patterns as on the other screen. The reds and greens of the clothes are bold and the details on the clothes and hats rich.

Although the faces are sparsely drawn, they show varied expressions. The footwork and hand gestures are a delight.

Decorated by a talented person eager to engage with “ Cathay ”, the screens are painted with gusto by a skilful hand. The design is orchestrated with artistry, understanding of Chinese art forms, imagination and humour.

The backs are covered in embossed red  paper.  see: Hygra Gallery : Antique Face Screens made with paper

The elegant handles are turned and carved in a variety of designs.    Some of these could be carved but are more likely  Ornamental Turning.

Origin: UK ;  Circa: 1815 ; Materials: wood


Size:  Screen 23 cm wide by 19.30 cm; handle 21cm long: 9 inches wide by 7.6 inches; handle 8.3  inches.

Condition:  Please refer to the  photographs for details of condition.

Keywords: Hygra.com, Antique box, Antique Face Screen, fan, fire screen, polychrome Chinoiserie, polychrome,  Chinoiserie, ornamental turning, OT, Moorish, Cathay, musical instruments, dancing girls, Chinese art forms, 

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All text and images and linked images are © 1999-2015 Antigone Clarke and Joseph O'Kelly. If you require any further information on permitted use, or a licence to republish any material, email us at copyright@hygra.com