Qing Dynasty
Thickness 0.6cm, Length 10.1cm, Width 3.5cm
The arm-rest, also known as "secret cabinet" or "wrist pillow", is used to rest the arm when writing. It is often made of bamboo. This arm-rest was carved by Zhang Xihuang, a sculptor in the late Ming and early Qing dynasty. It adopted the technique of Liuqing low relief carving which retained some of bamboo skin and was very picturesque. Carved on the arm-rest is a courtyard with wrinkled rocks and neatly arranged buildings. Their slender lines of reflect the smooth carving skill. The appreciation of bamboo carving is like viewing a scroll of painting, and obviously the carver has profound painting skill.