24k gold artwork from China.

By Notme2020, 25 July, 2025
Description

These portraits are made of 24k gold. The one below is a portrait of an ancient sail ship, the middle a peacock, and the top has a depiction of cranes. The length of these portraits are at 30" inches long each with a height of 14" inches. The weight of these goods are unknown. While both sail ship and crane artwork are of a standard black and gold color the middle peacock artwork is vibrant with brilliant colors that give definition to both peacocks of green and black on a gold foil backdrop. The calligraphy writing are written in the Chinese language. All three pictures are framed in a lightweight, possibly pressed wood that has been lacquered and surrounded by a non-metallic yellow metal. maybe plastic. The original packaging is made of thick red material with a yellow silk inlay that protects the product from scratches. The outside is stamped with gold Chinese lettering.

Dimensions: L: 30" x 14" x W: 1"

Weight: unknown

Origins: China. 

Category
Asian Art
Medium
24K Gold in a lightweight frame surrounded by either plastic or a non-metallic alloy.
Distinguishing marks
Chinese symbols and characters all throughout the front end of the picture frame.
Condition
Excellent
Size and dimensions of this item
L: 30" x H: 14" x W: 1"
Date Period
1980's - 1990's
Weight
Unknown
History
These were acquired outside the state of California while out on a business trip.
For Sale?
No
Photos

NaidaTheCollector

11 hours 49 min ago

Framed 24K Gold Foil Chinese Art Panels – Cranes, Peacocks, and Sail Ship

📘 Overview

  • Type: Chinese decorative wall art panels
  • Medium: 24K gold foil inlaid on black or golden backing, with printed or embossed surface details
  • Framing: Lightweight pressed wood with lacquer finish, gold-colored inner lining (likely plastic or alloy)
  • Subject Matter:
    1. Top panel: Cranes and pine tree – symbols of longevity and peace
    2. Middle panel: Peacocks and peonies – symbols of beauty, wealth, and spring
    3. Bottom panel: Ancient Chinese junk sailing ship – symbolizes smooth journeys and prosperity
  • Language: Chinese calligraphy with auspicious phrases
  • Packaging: Original red fabric presentation cases with yellow silk lining, commonly used for gifting or export

🧭 Cultural and Artistic Significance

These artworks draw from traditional Chinese symbolism:

  • Cranes and Pine Trees (松鹤延年 / Sōng hè yán nián) – wishing for a long life; often gifted to elders
  • Peacocks among Peonies (春色满园 / Chūn sè mǎn yuán) – “The garden full of spring,” symbolic of vibrant beauty and flourishing life
  • Chinese Junk Boat (一帆风顺 / Yī fān fēng shùn) – “May you have smooth sailing,” a common idiom representing success in business or new ventures

Such items were widely gifted in business and family occasions from the 1980s–1990s onward, especially during the boom in Chinese export culture and corporate gift-giving.

🧪 Materials & Construction

  • The “24K gold” label generally refers to gold foil stamping or electroplated gold film applied to embossed paper or plastic sheet. While technically 24K gold may be present, the actual gold content is extremely thin, often measured in microns (not solid).
  • Backing materials are typically paper composite or PVC, and the frames are often pressed board or MDF with faux gilding or plastic molding.

📏 Dimensions (Each Panel)

  • Size: ~30" L × 14" H × 1" W
  • Condition: Excellent – no visible frame damage, intact glazing, vibrant presentation

💵 Estimated Market Value (2025)

Market Context

Estimated Value (USD, per panel)

Notes

General Decorative/Resale

$75 – $125

Widely available from collectors, Asian import gift stores

Full Set of 3 (framed, excellent condition)

$225 – $375

Higher value when sold as a complete display

Original boxed gift sets (if pristine)

$250 – $400

Slightly higher if packaging is also pristine

 

🧾 Authentication Notes

  • These pieces are likely mass-produced commemorative decor rather than one-of-a-kind artwork
  • The characters and layout match common gift and souvenir designs used for festivals, business gifts, or elder blessings
  • No specific artist mark appears to denote a collectible artisan; however, the visual quality and cultural meaning still hold significant value

✅ Summary Evaluation

You own a beautiful set of mid-to-late 20th century Chinese gold foil art panels, in excellent preserved condition. While not rare in the fine art market, their symbolism, craftsmanship, and complete set presentation make them valuable in the decorative arts and cultural gift category.

They are ideal for:

  • Cultural heritage display
  • Gifting within Asian communities
  • Feng Shui enhancement
  • Or simply personal enjoyment of classic Chinese design and philosophy
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