Name/Title
Chinese Altar/Scholar's TableEntry/Object ID
MK_0153Description
This large Chinese temple altar table from the 18th century, resonates with the grandeur of the Qing dynasty. Thirteen fitted hardwood top panels crafted from wumu (persimmon) wood are intricately framed by a dark wood high-relief scroll frieze apron adding a layer of sophistication to this design marvel. Robust square legs culminate in scrolled feet, their strength and elegance echoing the Qing dynasty's penchant for both form and function.
Inscribed on the backs of the interior apron frieze panels is an extensive list of donors, including primary donor Ishizaki Zozo, etched in Japanese characters, a testament to the collaborative effort invested in this extraordinary piece. After its commission, it was transported to Nagasaki, Japan’s main port of trade during the Edo period, where both the Chinese and Dutch had trading communities. There, it is thought to have been presented to two, possibly related, Nichiren sect Buddhist temples in Nagasaki - Nagasaki Honrenji and Nagasaki Choshoji - as revealed by the three Japanese & Chinese inscriptions on the table’s legs.
1. 長寿 (Chōju) - Long life; 本蓮寺 (Honren-ji) - Honren-ji Temple, which is a common name for Buddhist temples in Japan; 檀家 (Danka) - A temple parishioner or supporter; 信者 (Shinsha) - Believer or follower; 中 (Chū): In or among.
2. 親孝院士畫目裕居士 石毒增造 (Qīn xiào yuànshì huà mù yù jūshì shí dú zēng zào) - Paintings by Academician Yu Jushi, a filial scholar, by Shi Du
3. 長壽 (Chángshòu) - Longevity; 長等寺 (Chángděngsì) - Changdeng Temple; 檀家信者中 (Dánjiā xìnzhě zhōng) - Among the Danka (temple patrons/supporters) believers.
The table's significant size, crafted from rare persimmon wood, also suggests a major commission, underscoring its exceptional status as a cultural bridge between Chinese artisanship and Japanese reverence for Buddhist traditions. Its resplendent position within the Mauna Kea's collection adds to the nuanced narrative of this unique and culturally significant Qing dynasty altar table.
This treasured piece has been in the Mauna Kea's collection since 1965, when Laurance Rockefeller developed the hotel, and has recently undergone an extensive conservation.Made/Created
Time Period
18th CenturyPlace
Country
ChinaContinent
AsiaLocation
Area
5th Floor AtriumFloor
5th FloorBuilding
Main TowerFloor
5th FloorBuilding
Main Tower