Folk Carved Panel

Dated to the 19th century, this flat wooden panel is curiously etched with geometric patterns, simple leaf motifs, and a triangle-work border. Its original use remains unknown - perhaps it was a divination tool, a traveling game board, or a weight to hold open a scroll. A storied keepsake from the past, the panel nonetheless charms with its unusual carved decoration and smooth, well-worn texture that calls to be touched.

Deaccessioned from the MacLean Collection of Asian Art.