Ornate Chinese Bone-Carved Dragon/Phoenix Treasure Ship (Takarabune Style)
Sculpture, decorative model ship • Unknown Chinese workshop (export market production)
Style & Movement
Chinoiserie / Traditional Chinese Folk Craft
Medium & Technique
Hand-carved bovine bone segments over a wooden armature, joined with adhesive and pegs, featuring ink-rubbed incised details
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1970-1990)
Dimensions & Format
Large-scale desktop sculpture; approximately 30-40 inches in length, horizontal orientation
Subject Description
A large, highly decorative 'Treasure Ship' featuring a phoenix-like avian figurehead, multiple levels of carved deck structures, architectural pavilions, and sails decorated with auspicious symbols like the chrysanthemum. It represents wealth, prosperity, and good fortune in East Asian auspicious iconography.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visually intact but exhibiting typical surface dust and potential yellowing due to age
Estimated Market Value
$1,500 - $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,200 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Likely acquired via the international export market or high-end department store gift galleries in the late 20th century; private residence setting
Art Historical Significance
Reflects the mid-to-late 20th-century trend of creating monumental bone carvings as a legal alternative to ivory. It demonstrates high-level workshop craftsmanship intended for the luxury export and interior decor market, mimicking imperial styles.
Notable Features
Extremely intricate diaper patterns and chrysanthemum motifs incised and highlighted with dark ink pigment; modular construction with various figures and architectural elements on deck.
Condition Issues
Surface accumulation of dust in recessed carvings; potential minor separation of bone plates due to humidity fluctuations; possible hairline surface cracks characteristic of organic bone material.
Conservation Recommendations
Professional cleaning with soft brushes; maintain stable humidity/temperature to prevent bone warp; keep out of direct sunlight to avoid further discoloration.