A Huanghuali wood pendant plaque inscribed “Zhaijie,” China, 18th–19th century

in golden-brown huanghuali wood, finely carved with the inscription Zaijie (“ritual abstinence”) in relief, surmounted by a stylized taotie mask motif. A ritual or scholar’s object, possibly used in domestic or temple contexts.

清 黄花梨木雕饕餮纹斋戒牌

cm 6.7 x 3.1 x 0.8