A wonderfully sculpted pair of Chinese export malachite figures of phoenixes, beautifully detailed and set upon a pair of purpose built finely carved openwork wood stands. The phoenix traditionally the symbol of the empress in China, it also is a symbol of union as it’s name incorporates the meaning for male and female. It is fitting, then that these figures are carved of malachite as it stands for balance in a relationship. The stone is very hard and difficult to work and so to achieve this level of detail demonstrates quite a level of mastery from the artist. Measuring 10″ tall on their carved stands, they are in good condition with the exception of two small chips to the feather. 19th century.