Large Chinese Luopan Geomantic Compass, Guangdong, C.1890

A substantial Chinese luopan compass dating to the late Qing Dynasty, circa 1890. Produced in Xingning County, Guangdong Province, this instrument was designed for the practice of Feng Shui and traditional Chinese geomancy.

Its unusually large 22.6 cm diameter places it among the more impressive surviving examples. The lacquered face is arranged in multiple concentric rings carrying cosmological, directional and calendrical information rendered in gold and red on a black ground. Included are the Bagua trigrams, Twenty-Four Mountains, Five Elements and traditional Stem-Branch cycles.

The central Tian Chi retains its original magnetic needle beneath glass. The reverse bears a maker's inscription naming Xingning County, Xinghua Street and Xing Tai Ji.

Comparable luopan compasses are preserved in the collections of the British Museum (https://www.britishmuseum.org), Penn Museum (https://www.penn.museum), Science Museum London (https://www.sciencemuseum.org.uk), Stromness Museum (https://www.stromnessmuseum.org.uk), Royal Museums Greenwich (https://www.rmg.co.uk) and the Metropolitan Museum of Art (https://www.metmuseum.org), reflecting the enduring importance of the luopan in Chinese cultural history.

Collectors value large signed luopan for their rarity, historical significance and striking display presence.

Measurements

Diameter: 22.6 cm (8.9″)

Height: 1.8 cm (0.7″)

Weight: 265 g

Condition

In some areas the lacquer has flaked, mainly around the outer edges, as shown in the photographs. The principal inscribed field remains largely intact with only minor wear. Dust is present beneath the compass glass. Otherwise good antique condition.

Shipping & Packaging

Fully tracked and insured delivery.

Shipping cost includes professional packaging, careful handling and postage.

Carefully packed using recycled materials where possible.

Please study the accompanying photographs carefully as they form an integral part of this description. If you have any questions, we will be happy to answer them. The item will be shipped with full tracking and insurance. It is important to note that shipping costs include labour, packaging and postage.

Questions are welcome.