Qing Chinese Scholars Lacquer Tablets 19th Century

A set of five rectangular carved wood lacquered tablets that were used by students to learn calligraphy.

The thinly carved wood panels have a matte black lacquered surface on one side that resembles slate. The edges of these panels are coated in red lacquer. The other side of two of the tablets is carved with floral vining and a shou symbol in the center. The other side of the other three tablets is covered with a shinier lacquer than the matte side.

MEASUREMENTS
Each tablet measures 11” (27.9 cm) long x 2 ½” (6.4 cm) wide x 3/16” (.5 cm) thick. Weighs 9.1 oz (260 g)

CONDITION
The lacquer on the wood surfaces is worn. One panel side has quite a bit of loss to the lacquer. The other panels have varying degrees of lacquer loss (please look closely at the photos). Several of the tablets with one side with a dull finish have remnants of chalk visible.

A great Chinese antique scholar’s object to outfit your display desk.