Antique Chinese | “Devil’s Work” Puzzle Ball | Multi-Sphere Carving | 19th–20th Century
Description
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Historical Context & Origin
Region: China
Material: Hand-carved bovine bone or fruitwood (based on appearance)
Period: Late 19th–Early 20th Century (Late Qing / Republic Period)
Description
This finely carved Chinese multi-layer puzzle ball—often called a “Devil’s Work Ball”—is an outstanding example of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. The exterior sphere features detailed dragons, cloud-scroll motifs, and pierced latticework, all carved with remarkable depth and precision. Inside, multiple inner globes rotate freely, each carved from the same solid block without joints or seams. The piece is presented on a carved wooden stand with scrolling decorative feet, enhancing its aesthetic and display value.
Features
- Authentic Chinese multi-layer puzzle ball carved from a single piece
- Dragon, cloud-scroll, and lattice motifs on the outer sphere
- Multiple inner spheres, each independently movable
- Intricate hand-carving demonstrating advanced late-Qing/Republic craftsmanship
- Mounted on a carved wooden display stand
Cultural Significance
Puzzle balls have long been admired in China as symbols of wisdom, harmony, and technical mastery. The dragon represents power, protection, and auspicious fortune, while the nested spheres embody unity within complexity. These intricate objects were traditionally gifted, used for contemplation, or displayed as demonstrations of extraordinary carving skill, often requiring weeks or months to complete.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with crisp carving and natural patina consistent with age. Inner spheres rotate properly. Wooden stand in good condition with minor wear appropriate to age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Puzzle Ball Diameter: 3.5 in
Height with Stand: 4 in
Age
Late 19th–Early 20th Century (Late Qing / Republic Period)
Learn More
Explore the intricate craftsmanship and symbolic depth behind traditional Chinese multi-sphere puzzle balls: The Chinese Puzzle Ball – Heritage Asian Art
Discover additional Qing and Republic-period carvings and relics in our collection: Ancient Chinese Artifacts & Imperial Relics – Relic And Rarity
Description
Historical Context & Origin
Region: China
Material: Hand-carved bovine bone or fruitwood (based on appearance)
Period: Late 19th–Early 20th Century (Late Qing / Republic Period)
Description
This finely carved Chinese multi-layer puzzle ball—often called a “Devil’s Work Ball”—is an outstanding example of traditional Chinese craftsmanship. The exterior sphere features detailed dragons, cloud-scroll motifs, and pierced latticework, all carved with remarkable depth and precision. Inside, multiple inner globes rotate freely, each carved from the same solid block without joints or seams. The piece is presented on a carved wooden stand with scrolling decorative feet, enhancing its aesthetic and display value.
Features
- Authentic Chinese multi-layer puzzle ball carved from a single piece
- Dragon, cloud-scroll, and lattice motifs on the outer sphere
- Multiple inner spheres, each independently movable
- Intricate hand-carving demonstrating advanced late-Qing/Republic craftsmanship
- Mounted on a carved wooden display stand
Cultural Significance
Puzzle balls have long been admired in China as symbols of wisdom, harmony, and technical mastery. The dragon represents power, protection, and auspicious fortune, while the nested spheres embody unity within complexity. These intricate objects were traditionally gifted, used for contemplation, or displayed as demonstrations of extraordinary carving skill, often requiring weeks or months to complete.
Condition
Excellent antique condition with crisp carving and natural patina consistent with age. Inner spheres rotate properly. Wooden stand in good condition with minor wear appropriate to age.
Dimensions (Approximate)
Puzzle Ball Diameter: 3.5 in
Height with Stand: 4 in
Age
Late 19th–Early 20th Century (Late Qing / Republic Period)
Learn More
Explore the intricate craftsmanship and symbolic depth behind traditional Chinese multi-sphere puzzle balls: The Chinese Puzzle Ball – Heritage Asian Art
Discover additional Qing and Republic-period carvings and relics in our collection: Ancient Chinese Artifacts & Imperial Relics – Relic And Rarity
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