Featured Chinese Imperial Fan... NOT! What do you think?

So this is an interesting item, however I am pretty sure misidentified. I have seen numerous exaggerated valuations from Japan over the years. Regardless the item is pretty cool and the carved ivory orb is fantastic. What are your thoughts?

 

More photos

 

Well here’s something new. Wow Hope others and chime in and add. Unbelievable carving on ivory. Love it

 

An amazing piece.
I haven't seen anything similar, but so far I have no reason to believe it couldn't have held an attachment for feathers.

 

What a stunner...an' the story behind how you came into possession of this unique piece must be just as amazing! Hearty congratulations on your great good fortune!

 

Incredible item! What are your thoughts as to purpose. I would have no idea.

 

looking at some depictions of Chinese processionals, I see a lot of parasols on long sticks. Also see this one where there are two things with balls on sticks. Not sure what they are. (thrid one , top row)

A twelve-leaf album of Chinese export paintings of Processionals | Chinese Pith Paintings, Kheshing Studio (antipodean.com)

 

Maybe @Kaiserpoo has an idea?

 

Trying to understand... the article suggests it's a handle for a shielding fan or a large cooling fan that would be held by servants?

 

That is how I understand it.

 

It could be tough to sell here now - anything ivory gives auction houses hives, even if you can prove it's OK to sell.

 

Throne with fans on either side from the Qianlong era, 18th century:
(from the Forbidden City artifacts exhibit at the Royal Ontario Museum, 2014)

 

Yes there is a story. Up until COVID hit I had a list of Chinese clients. A friend unexpectedly sent this to me with a bunch of other ivory items to get rid of. Well my list of buyers quickly fell off, the last one got busted by CITES in China. So now I am left with the piece with no way to sell it.

 

I only have one photo of some of the magnificent pieces that have passed through my hands. This piece was 29" tall with a dragon puzzle ball that had 32 layers. It was truly a majestic piece. All items I sold were documented pre 1900. Getting the documents we're an arduous task but well worth it in the end.

 

Without belaboring the obvious...y'could give it away. If not to a museum or similar public display venue, my address can be yours in a heartbeat!