Antique Seated Lohan on High Pedestal, China (16717)
Original price was: $1,750.00.$1,275.00Current price is: $1,275.00.
H: 27.5″ W: 8.5″ D: 6.5″ | CALL 213-568-3030 OR EMAIL [email protected] FOR SHIPPING.
Vibrant Lohan, realistic youthful smiling face, hands in reverence. Monk’s shaved hair and simple robes. Tall pedestal symbolizes spiritual significance. Size and pose suggest it was on home or community altar. Wonderfully inspiring and serene image.
Description
Lohans in Mahayana Buddhism (Arhats in Theravada Buddhism) are holy men who have achieved enlightenment through their Buddhist practices, spirituality and asceticism and are s assured of attaining the final stage of nirvana when they die. Although they have achieved Enlightenment, Lohan have decided to remain on earth to protect and disseminate the principles of Buddhism.
Lohans were the first disciples of the Buddha who, on his deathbed, entrusted to protect his teachings. Originally 16 in number, but, after Buddhism reached China along the Silk Roads, the Chinese added two more. They are revered for their perfect wisdom and knowledge of all things, as well as their ability to ensure perfection in others. They are well recognized for their great courage and supernatural powers.
Lohans are generally depicted as elderly monks with shaved heads wearing loose monk’s robes. They are the only Buddhist enlightened beings depicted in natural versus idealized forms, and, thus, their faces are often unusually realistic. This 17th century Lohan is a departure, as his realistic face is youthful with a slight yet engaging smile attesting that, as an enlightened being, he knows the ways of the universe. His extended earlobes are a sign of his wisdom and enlightenment. He stands modestly with downcast eyes, his hands in a gesture of respect and reverence. As a monk, his hair is shaved, and he wears the simple long-sleeved garments crossed at the neck. His tall pedestal elevates him to reinforce and symbolize his spiritual significance. The cavity on his back indicates it was consecrated. Based on his size and pose, it was probably placed on a home altar or community shrine rather than a temple setting.
It is in excellent condition with some expected wear at the bottom of the base. This vibrant carving is an image of serenity and grace that transforms the environment around it.
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