Chinese Immortal or Ancestor Figure - 19thC Tang Horses This burgundy lacquer console table

This burgundy lacquer console table is from a Shanxi farmhouse and dates from the 19th century

Choksars are used in front of the family altar as table to read and recite from the long prayer books

The sticks are then riveted together with iron fittings

this Indian lintel would have been used above a door and depicts the Hindu elephant god Ganesh in the centre

3 seater: W180 x D55 x H98cm

Chinese Immortal or Ancestor Figure - 19thC Tang Horses This burgundy lacquer console tableAncestor worship was an integral part of Chinese culture for many centuries. It played an important part in each family's clan life. Ancestor figures were cherished and honoured daily with an offering of incense. This was believed to protect the home and family members. Chinese "kin", lineage, is also known as a "clan". These are families of direct male descendants sharing the same surname. Clans are still most active in the southern and eastern