|Ivory Ball -Concentric ivory spheres carved in openwork with cloud-and-dragon motifs|
This ivory sphere was carved from a single solid piece of elephant ivory to form successive openwork spheres inside, serving as either a hanging or resting decorative piece. From the inside to the outer layer, this type of sphere carving consists of several levels of openwork to form concentric balls, the diameter of each differing slightly from the preceding one. With each sphere nestled perfectly within the next, they form what appears to be an ordinary ball. However, each unit inside can move freely, demonstrating the ingenious and precise level of engraving by the artisan(s). Altogether, this piece has 21 levels!
Ivory Ball -Concentric ivory spheres carved in openwork with cloud-and-dragon motifs
Ch'ing dynasty (1644-1911)
National Palace Museum