Ivory carving Chinese art by medium and technique

ivory not prestigious material in rather strict hierarchy of chinese art, jade had been far more highly regarded, , rhinoceros horn (which not ivory) had special auspicious meaning. ivory, bone, had been used various items since times when china still had own species of elephant. demand ivory seems have played large part in extinction, came before 100 bc. during ming dynasty, ivory began used small statuettes of gods , others (see gallery). in qing dynasty, suited growing taste intricate carving , became more prominently used brush-holders, boxes, handles , similar pieces. later on, canton developed large models of houses , other large , showy pieces, remained popular. enormous examples still seen decorative centrepieces @ government receptions. figures typically uncoloured, or features coloured in ink black, few other colors.