a pair of license plates - Wood - China - Qing Dynasty (1644-1911)

Chinese carved-wood panels, lacquered in red and gold, dating predominantly to the late Qing dynasty period (19th century – early 20th century). These panels were traditionally used as ornamental architectural elements to decorate the interiors of temples, luxurious four-poster bridal beds, or domestic partitions. The high-relief scenes depict figures from Chinese mythology, popular folklore, or traditional opera, surrounded by auspicious floral and vegetal motifs.