What Is It? - #61

S

SifuPhil

R.I.P. With Us In Spirit Only
Location
Pennsylvania, USA
Today's item is finely crafted of ivory, measures 3.25" in diameter, is completely hand-carved and features a dragon and phoenix, two of the most important animal figures in Chinese mythology.

mystery antique 65b.jpg

mystery antique 65c.jpg


WHAT IS IT?
 

Old Hipster said:
It's a Chinese puzzle ball.
Click to expand...

DING! DING! DING!

We have a winna'!!!

Geeze ... I really think I have to start Photoshopping some weird stuff, 'cause you folks are just too smart!

Old Hipster has correctly identified this object as a Chinese Puzzle Ball, sort of the forerunner of the Rubik's Cube. Chinese Puzzle Balls were hand-made by using a set of specialized tools and took quite a long time to create.

The Dragon and Phoenix are said to have special significance for married couples, as the Yin/Yang symbolization supposedly strengthens marriages and offers health and prosperity.

Here's a short video about the balls ...



Congrats Old Hipster for your win! :D
 
SeaBreeze said:
Congratulations Old Hipster! Interesting that someone in your family had one of those! :cool:
Click to expand...
It was in with some stuff at my Grandma's with some WWII souvenirs, there was also a Japanese flag (with blood on it) and a bayonet and a metal ashtray set from Germany. As kids we were always fascinated with the stuff in Grandma's attic.
 
I suppose that's the rationale for playing in the attic - you increase your IQ. ;)

I'm just really shocked that anyone got it that fast - good job, again!
 
There is a show on UK TV. The Antiques Road show. The other day they had a woman who brought one of these ivory carvings in.
Her Grandfather had been given it while doing business in China in 1901, They valued it at about 8000 To 10000 Pounds.
It was carve by some well know chinese Master.
 

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