Ming Lacquered Wood Infant Buddha, China H: 17.5″

Description

Wood images of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, especially as an infant right after his miraculous birth, are rare, as they were not generally used on a home altar, although this one this one probably was since the cavity in the back indicates it was consecrated.  Carved from one dense piece of wood, portrayed with his feet and legs slightly spread apart and firmly planted on the ground, this image is missing both arms. Given this, it is surprising that it is remains such a powerful yet charming image. Although clearly the infant Buddha, he is portrayed with more adult features, almond eyes, and pendulous ears as the scriptures note that he was born fully formed. Statues created by skilled rural artisans display provincial rather than imperial traits to appeal to a local and not necessarily sophisticated audience. The young Buddha is portrayed as a humble infant in wood rather than in metal with a youthful belly, a round head, thick legs wearing a modest waist cloth instead of monks attire. Standing on a small plain round base that supports his stable relaxed stance, his right shoulder dips slightly in a calm, tranquil yet confident pose. This rare and unique image is in good condition considering its age, use, and deterioration it experienced during China’s modernization. There are remains of the gilt on the back and legs that originally covered his body, red pigment on the base with expected cracks, and lacquer chips and minor losses in addition to its missing upper limbs. The back cavity indicates itwas consecrated. Mounted on a frosted acrylic stand.