Antique Chinese Carved Scholar’s Card Case
Antique Chinese Carved Scholar’s Card Case
Thyme to Acquire
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Qing Dynasty, c. 1880–1910
A finely carved antique Chinese scholar’s card case featuring an intricate garden scene with figures, pavilions, and layered foliage. Objects of this type were used to hold visiting cards or small documents and were associated with the cultured life of the Chinese literati during the late Qing dynasty.
Hand-carved in high relief from ivory (or bone, per modern trade regulations), this piece displays exceptional craftsmanship, with deep undercutting, expressive figures, and crisp architectural detail throughout. The fully hollowed interior and notched top opening confirm its original functional use, while the warm, naturally aged patina reflects over a century of careful preservation.
This example is notable for its excellent antique condition, with no major cracks, losses, or repairs. The carving remains sharp and well defined, making it a refined and highly collectible object suited for display in a library, study, or curated interior.
Dimensions: 3.75" L x 2.25" W
Condition: Excellent antique condition; light, age-appropriate wear
Conditions Guide
Conditions Guide
Excellent:
Nearly perfect. Very minimal or no signs of wear. A real gem!
Very Good:
Gently lived-in, with light signs of age—like a faint surface scratch or a small scuff. Beautifully preserved.
Good:
Shows its age in a lovely, honest way. Expect some visible wear such as dings, scratches, or marks, but still fully functional and full of charm.
Fair:
Has significant signs of wear or aging. May need some TLC or repair. Ideal for those who love a project or the perfectly imperfect.
Please keep in mind that all items are sold as-is. We’re always happy to answer questions or share additional photos—just reach out before purchasing. All sales are final.
Shipping or Pickup
Shipping or Pickup
Pickup
Pickups are available Monday–Friday from 9am to 6pm (CST) in New Orleans, LA. During checkout, you’ll be able to select a specific time for pickup that works for you.
Delivery
We don’t offer in-house delivery, but we’re happy to recommend trusted New Orleans-based delivery companies. If you’d like a referral, just email us at team@thymetoacquire.com.
At checkout, choose the pickup option and include your delivery service details so we can coordinate from our end.
Items Only Available for Pickup
If the delivery option is disabled for an item, it’s likely a larger piece that requires local pickup. No worries—you’ll be able to schedule your pickup time during checkout.
Return Policy
Return Policy
Please note: all items are sold as-is. We do our best to provide clear descriptions and accurate measurements, but please note dimensions carefully. Feel free to reach out to team@thymetoacquire.com with any questions before purchasing. We’re happy to share additional photos or details upon request. Due to the nature of vintage and antique items, all sales are final. For more information about how we assess conditions, please refer to our conditions guide.
