Chinese hardstone floral tree in a cloisonné enamel planter

Chinese hardstone floral tree in a cloisonné enamel planter
Chinese, 20th Century
Height 19cm, width 13cm, depth 11cm
 
This stunning flower model combines several semi-precious hardstones with a petite cloisonné enamel planter. Sitting atop a resin-treated metal trunk are multiple hardstone blooms, with materials including lapis lazuli, rose quartz, and carnelian. Each blossom is centred by a stigma, which comprises yellow beads held together by thread-wrapped wire. The vibrant and pastel shades of the flowers are excellently contrasted by the dark green leaves, which are expertly carved from nephrite.
 
The tree sits within a black cloisonné enamel planter. The pot is decorated with pastel pink flowers surrounded by green leaves, complementing the floral theme of the object. Miniature gold clouds cover the entirety of the pot, which in Chinese culture symbolise oncoming good fortune.
 
Bringing together many precious materials and historic techniques, this beautiful Chinese work is a true objet d’art.