Williamson Auction
Live Auction

Auction 52, Are You Feeling Lucky? March 17th, 2026

Tue, Mar 17, 2026 12:00PM EDT
Lot 652

Fine Chinese Hand-Carved Bone-Style Miniature Figurines – Set of 4

Estimate: $300 - $600

Bid Increments

Price Bid Increment
$0 $5
$50 $10
$150 $25
$500 $50
$1,000 $100
$2,000 $250
$4,000 $500
$15,000 $1,000
$50,000 $2,500
$100,000 $5,000

Description

The set includes two dynamic individual figures and two intricate multi-figure scenes:

  • The Travelers/Sages: Two independent figures depicted in expressive, movement-oriented poses. One figure is shown navigating rocky terrain, while the other appears in a classic scholarly or martial stance, both wearing traditional robes and conical hats.

  • The Workshop Scene: A highly detailed diorama showcasing a craftsman at work. This piece includes miniature representations of tools, scrolls, and furniture, all carved from a single cohesive base.

  • The Village Scene: A three-figure arrangement depicting a communal activity, possibly food preparation or traditional medicine. The interaction between the figures provides a sense of narrative and depth.

Each piece is rendered in a creamy, aged off-white material with fine graining, characteristic of high-quality bovine bone or vintage resin composites. Two of the figures are mounted on custom-fitted, dark-stained wooden bases (likely rosewood), which provide a striking contrast to the pale carvings.

Condition Report: Excellent vintage condition. No visible chips, cracks, or repairs. The patination is consistent across the set, suggesting they have been kept together as a collection.


Specifications

  • Material: Carved Bone / Polychrome Composite

  • Origin: China

  • Period: Mid-20th Century

  • Quantity: 4 Pieces total (2 with wooden bases)


Keywords: Chinese antiques, hand-carved, miniature figurines, oriental decor, Asian art, vintage dioramas, scholarly figures, bone carving, faux-bone, traditional crafts, mid-century collectibles, rosewood base, artisanal sculpture, Canton style, netsuke style, folk art.

Available payment options

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  • Union Pay

Shipping

For shipping assistance, we recommend contacting the following trusted professionals:

UPS Store: Phone 954-963-7134 Email store0288@theupsstore.com website

theupsstore.com/0288

Alternatively, we can provide additional recommendations for third-party shipping

services. All items will be shipped within 10 business days after payment has cleared.

Items must be picked up within 10 business days following the auction. Items not

collected within this timeframe will be placed in storage at a fee of $10.00 per item per day.