2249-B: Bone basket carrier Approximately 28H (similar piece avail. 25H)		2249-1-B: Bone basket carrier (side view) Approximately 28H (similar piece avail. 25H)		2252: Bone charger on bone stand with intricate Floral motif (pair available) Approx. 25 dia. x 29H		2252-B: Bone charger on bone stand with intricate Floral motif (back view) (pair available) Approx. 25 dia. x 29H
	2254: Bone puzzle box with figurative scene with crane top 18L x 8W x 9H		2254-1: Bone puzzle box with figurative scene with crane top (top view) 18L x 8W x 9H		2254-2: Bone puzzle box with figurative scene with crane top (interior view) 18L x 8W x 9H

The Bone Collection

Refined carving is considered to be one to be one of the earliest art forms in China. The origins of bone carvings began in the more primitive Paleolithic Age (30,000–10,000 BCE) . The Chinese knew how to turn animal bones into rudimentary tools for daily living as well as simple adornments. From the Chou Dynasty (1027–256 BCE) on, exquisitely intricate and detailed treatments of bone carvings and inlay were done by highly skilled artisans. From the Han Dynasty (206 BCE–220 AD) on, tusk and bone continued to hold a prominent place in the history of Chinese arts and crafts. Some extremely skilled artisans served in the Imperial Workshops.

Many cultures used animal bones for their art and adornments, but the most celebrated works have been offered by Chinese artisans. Most frequently camel bone and ox bone are used. Animals are not killed for the bone; it is harvested after natural death. Because of the stringent laws pertaining to ivory, bone has become more widely utilized.

Antique or older pieces of bone carvings are becoming more scarce. The art of carving was taught and handed down from generation to generation. It is more difficult to find artisans who can execute the minute details on these cherished art forms. We do offer some rare, antique and older pieces, but it is with great pride that we have found a studio to produce these beautifully crafted and unique art pieces offered in The Bone Collection.