Chinese
Pair of Panels, late 19th century
Carved wood with gold leaf and red lacquer, 381.6 x 61 x 12.7 cm (150 1/4 x 24 x 5 in.)
These are a tall pair of antique Chinese doors made of gilt wood and red lacquer. They are ornately carved and measure 12 ½ by 2 feet and are identical. These doors are solid wood, except for a tall rectangular section, about half way up which depicts a golden vase with a display of peony blossoms, branches and leaves cascading upward. The vase stands on a multi- tiered geometric dais. Below the vase there are various objects; some look like coins, and there appears to be a short container with blossoms and large oak leaves. This entire section is set against black lattice work. Framing this area is a thin border, trimmed in gold with a repeating inlaid pattern of dots and flowers. At the very top and bottom areas of these doors, and in relief are raised gilded floral, stems and leaf embellishments.
Second Floor Passage
Commentary
Isabella Stewart Gardner kept meticulous records of many of her acquisitions. In keeping with this legacy, object information is continually being reviewed, updated, and enriched in order to give greater access to the collection.