Framed Chinese Ivory Carving

[geovic]

I'd like to sell this, but I don't know what to call it, other than "Framed Chinese Ivory Carving". Does this type of art have a unique name?

What does the pictogram say?

Is it possible that this is real ivory? One of the pieces, a butterfly, fell off, and I applied a red hot pin to the back of it, but it only scorched the surface - it didn't melt it. On the other hand, it doesn't shine white under ultraviolet light, like real ivory would. And also, I thought it was dirty, so I tried to clean it with almond oil, but it didn't have any effect, so I'm assuming it was stained, like faux ivory might be.

Any suggestions for an asking price? (It's 18" x 25-1/2", FWIW.)

George

[Shelley]

It could be bone instead of ivory. I don't know if bone fluoresces under UV.

It would a good idea to find out definitely if it is ivory, only if it is old ivory is it legal to own and sell. There is probably someone near to you that can tell you for certain.

What ever you do don't clean it, collectors like things in original condition, dirt and all

The person who advises you about whether or not it is ivory may also be able to advise about price, no way am I expert enough to price it.

[geovic]

Mostly, I'd like to know what it's called.

Has anyone here ever seen anything like this before?

I've searched the web several times over the years I've had this piece, including ebay, worthpoint, rubylane, trocadero, etc., and haven't found anything like it.