Antique Attendant with Celestial Scarf, China (16726HKE) $2450

$2,450.00

H: 25”  W: 7.5”  D: 6” | FOR SHIPPING INFORMATION CONTACT US AT 213-568-3030

This lovely carving of a beautiful young woman represents an attendant that would have been housed on a home altar or shrine to accompany an enlightened Buddhist or Taoist figure at whom she modestly gazes.  Her hands, covered by a draped ritual cloth, hold offerings and the swirling ribbon implying her power, weightlessness or being in the heavens. This truly elegant and forceful statue with winding ribbons reflect the auspicious phrase  “May longevity bring blessings.” Its lustrous patina attained over centuries adds to its depth, softness and grace which enhance the energy in any space it occupies. 

Description

Attendant figures are usually presented on a home altar in pairs flanking revered figure they honor. This lovely carving is an enlightened being indicated by her pendulous ears, elevated and flowing ribbons, and blissful smile. She traditionally carries offerings  which might be  food, fruit, medicine, or other unique items. Her extremely pleasing face highlights her modesty as her eyes are guardedly cast down and her slightly swaying body leans inward, adorned with an elegant two-tiered gown with a high collar and long flowing sleeves that fall over her feet. A decorative thin curved headdress holds back her chignon and a ribbon winds gracefully around her head and upper body.  Ribbons reflect the auspicious phrase  “May longevity bring blessings” and when they are next to or behind an object, person or deity signify the extraordinary power of the individual or object they surround. The empty rear cavity indicates the carving was consecrated. This image is in excellent condition with lacquer and pigmentation intact and expected minor paint losses and cracks consistent with age and use. Since she probably flanked a Buddhist deity, she is part of the VA Collection of Buddhist-Art.

Click here for the Blog Consecrating Wooden Images to Imbue Them with A Life Force

 

Additional information

Place of Origin

China

Period

Antique, Qing Dynasty

Date

18-19th Century

Materials and Technique

Wood

Dimensions (inches)

: Ht: 25” W: 7.5” D: 6”

Dimensions (metric)

Ht: 63.5cm W: 19.05cm D: 15.24cm

Weight

10 lbs 11 oz

Condition

Excellent, fine patina demonstrating age and use

Reference Number

16726HKE

Shipping Box Size