Antique Ancestor Figure in Official’s Attire, China (16752)

Description

Being a civilian official in Qing dynasty China was a coveted position. After passing vigorous exams, the lucky selected few were assured high status, positions of power, a comfortable living with generous retirement benefits. Families proudly portrayed ancestor officials in paintings and as ancestral carvings commemorating and honoring them by displayed them on a home altar or perhaps, as with large carvings like this in a separate room or ancestral hall. They honored them by maintaining their by displaying their images on a home altar or, perhaps with a large carving like this, in a separate room or ancestral hall.  paintings and carvings.

This large, imposing and colorful 18th-19th century ancestor in officials attire is seated on a backless chair atop a plinth in a traditional official’s posture also affirming his high position. The feet rest on the pedestal, his right hand reinforces his status by holding up his girdle belt of office, the left rests firmly on his knee and he his pendulous ears signify his wisdom. His face is realistically carved with almond-shaped eyes and slightly smiling pursed lips in a calm rather than a traditional stern expression. Due to the now well contained insect infestation in the rear and likely fading paint, he and his attire have been repainted in bright colors often  done on weathered figures . Ornate patterns cover his robe with long flowing sleeves, black borders and red inner linings. His re-painted white face has red lips, half-closed eyes and high eyebrows, and this likely mid-century repainting leads us to speculate the piece is likely from Qing South China.

The large back cavity indicates this carving was consecrated by a Buddhist or Taoist monk.

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