Photo © Israel Museum, Jerusalem, by Oded Löbl |
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Wrist rest; underside carved with “One Hundred Children at Play” 19th century, Qing dynasty China Ivory H: 26; W: 6 cm Bequest of Rachel Linton, Haifa Accession number: B98.0920 |
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“One Hundred Children at Play” is a visual representation of the blessing of many male offspring, considered necessary for the continuation of the family line. This highly popular, auspicious subject was depicted in a wide range of media: painting, porcelain, embroidery, and carving. Here 53 boys – some playing children’s games, others imitating the activities of adult daily life – are carved on the inner side of a piece of ivory used to support the wrist while writing. Publications: Bizarre Perfection, The Israel Museum, Jerusalem, 2008 Exhibition: Bizarre Perfection, Israel Museum, Jerusalem, The Ruth Youth Wing, December 2008 - June 2009 Digital presentation of this object was made possible by: The Ridgefield Foundation, New York, in memory of Henry J. and Erna D. Leir |
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