Large antique Chinese carved ivory figural group depicting three birds perched on a pine tree branch that rests on a carved naturalistic ground. Base with black seal mark. Fitted with a custom pierced and carved footed hardwood stand. 3 3/4" H x 11 1/4" W x 3 3/4" W. Circa 1900. Provenance: The collection of Gary Glesser of Loudon, Tennessee, by descent from his grandparents, Captain Hoyt and Rachel Holton of Toledo, Ohio. Hoyt Holton became, at age 17, the youngest captain of a Great Lakes Freighter. In the 1960s, Captain Holton participated in a 26-day Admiral Byrd Society trip replicating the explorer's famous transpolar expedition, during which he met the Pope and Soviet Premier Nikita Kruschev. Many items in the collection were brought back as souvenirs from that journey and other frequent voyages. Note: This lot can only be sold to a resident of the State of Tennessee. This lot contains animal or plant material that may be restricted under federal, state, and/or local law. Bidders should check all applicable government wildlife restrictions prior to placing a bid. The buyer will be solely responsible for obtaining any necessary license or permits applicable to the sale or transport of the object

PROVENANCE: See description for provenance information.

CONDITION: Overall very good condition with old patina, some age cracks and miniscule losses. Small inconspicuous area of staining to one bird wing.