Rare Antique Infant Buddha , China (16488BKE) $650

$650.00

H: 17” W: 5” D: 5” | FOR SHIPPING quoteCONTACT US AT 213-568-3030 or email vanishingarts213@gmail.com

This rare wood carving of the Buddha as an infant is remarkable because of the way it has survived. As with many antique Chinese wood carvings, there is extensive deterioration from age/insect damage. Although there is total loss to the arms, legs and torso, it is virtually untouched from the neck up.  This is a piece for lovers of wood, with the body worn to a delicately smooth but irregular surface. It is probably more striking than original piece, as its erosion shows the random miracle of chance and is highlighted on a frosted acrylic base. .  

 

 

 

Description

According to Buddhist scriptures the conception and birth of Shakyamuni, the historical Buddha, were miraculous. Immediately after birth, he walked in seven directions, one hand pointing to heavens, the other to earth symbolizing his supremacy over all realms and lotus sprung up around him. The Buddha is depicted as baby but with fully formed mature features standing with legs firmly planted on the ground or on a lotus base. Although here he is represented as an infant with soft features, baby fat in his cheeks, and a wisp of hair on his head to represent his infancy and associate him with youthful monks, his face reflects the adult Buddha with almond eyes and pendulous ears mature beyond his years. What is remarkable about this antique-Chinese-carving is how it survived over time. The arms, legs and torso have deteriorated from age/insect damage while it is virtually untouched from the neck up. Traces of red and black remain, the three rings on his neck have partially survived, and the rest of the body has worn to a delicately smooth but irregular surface. Small carved infant-Buddha statues are very rare as they were infrequently displayed on a home altar, although given its size, this one might have been.The day of his birth takes place on a full moon and is celebrated as Fódàn in China in Mahayana Buddhism or Vesak in Southeast Asia in Theravada Buddhism which commemorates the triple event of Buddha’s birth, enlightenment, and death.  It is mounted on a uniquely fashioned frosted acrylic base to complement any decor.

Additional information

Place of Origin

China

Period

Antique, Qing Dynasty

Date

18-19th Century

Materials and Technique

Wood

Dimensions (inches)

Ht: 17” W: 5” D: 5”

Dimensions (metric)

Ht: 43.18cm W: 12.7cm D: 12.7cm

Weight

4lbs 5oz

Condition

Good to fair, see description

Item Number

16488BKE

Shipping Box Size