Chinese Carved Hardwood Altar Stand with Peony Decoration — Late Qing Dynasty, 19th Century DESCRIPTION A finely carved Chinese hardwood altar stand dating to the late Qing Dynasty (circa 1870–1900). The rectangular platform is richly decorated with deeply carved peony blossoms and foliage panels to all sides, framed by a classic Greek key (leiwen) border. The openwork apron features scrolling vegetal motifs, and the stand rests on elegant cabriole-style legs terminating in rounded feet. The surface retains its original red lacquer finish with natural wear and patina consistent with age. The recessed top panel is finished in contrasting dark lacquer, showing honest surface wear from use. This type of stand was traditionally used as a small domestic altar platform, scholar’s display stand, or incense table. Dimensions: 26 × 20 × 10 cm Material: Carved hardwood with lacquer finish Period: Late Qing Dynasty (19th century) CONDITION Overall good antique condition with expected age-related wear, including edge rubbing and lacquer losses. An old reinforcement to the interior base panel is present, consistent with long-term use. Structurally stable and solid. Please examine photographs carefully, as they form part of the description. Conditions of Sale By placing a bid, the buyer enters into a binding contract and agrees to the following terms: 1. Shipment, Delivery & Risk Delivery obligations are fulfilled upon transfer of the lot to a professional carrier for shipment to the address provided through the Catawiki platform. Official carrier tracking records, including delivery confirmation, delivery attempts, customs notifications, and status updates, constitute conclusive evidence of shipment and delivery progress. Risk transfers to the buyer upon dispatch. Claims of non-receipt that contradict carrier tracking confirmation will not invalidate the transaction. 2. Customs, Refusal & Contract Termination All import duties, VAT, customs clearance fees, brokerage charges, and related governmental assessments are solely the buyer’s responsibility. Refusal to accept delivery for any reason — including refusal to pay customs duties or import charges — constitutes: • Voluntary refusal of performance • Material breach of contract • Immediate termination of the sale in favor of the seller In such cases, the seller reserves the right to: • Request full payment release from Catawiki • Recover all return shipping fees, storage fees, administrative charges, carrier penalties, and related costs • Apply a reasonable restocking fee where permitted • Decline any obligation to reship the lot Returned parcels caused by refusal, non-payment of customs, failure to collect, or incorrect address remain entirely at the buyer’s risk and expense. 3. Condition & Description All lots are sold “as is” and “as photographed.” Photographs form part of the description and accurately represent visible condition at the time of listing. Age-related wear, patina, oxidation, glaze variation, craquelure, firing marks, surface irregularities, minor losses, restorations, manufacturing variations, and material inconsistencies are inherent characteristics of antique, vintage, and collectible objects across all categories and do not constitute defects. The absence of reference to condition issues does not imply perfect condition. No warranty is made that any lot is free from restoration, repair, alteration, or replacement unless expressly stated in writing. 4. Attribution & Opinion Any statement regarding age, origin, period, maker, material, cultural attribution, or historical context reflects informed opinion based on experience and research. Such statements are not guarantees or warranties. Differences in scholarly opinion, stylistic interpretation, market reassessment, or third-party evaluation do not constitute grounds for cancellation, dispute, or refund. 5. We pride ourselves on taking the time to pack well, however that does not reduce the risk of damage or breakage to abdolute zero. Bidding is with this accepting this concept in mind. By bidding, the buyer acknowledges full acceptance of these Conditions of Sale.