Many Chinese wood images have a hallowed-out cavity on their back which was central to an “eye opening” ceremony held to imbue each carving with its own life force. All Images – Buddhism, Taoist or Popular religion – had to be consecrated by a Taoist Priest, Buddhist Monk or spiritual leaders to be placed on a home altar and to protect all family members and domestic animals. The cavity was filled with ritual objects and may have included documents like favorite Buddhist sutras, Taoist poems or prayers, messages to ancestors, entreaties to deities, or a script by the presiding person describing the figure and when and by whom it was commissioned. The ceremony was attended by the artist, donor, relatives and friends, and other Taoist or Buddhist congregants. The cavity was sealed and eyes were painted to impart sight, the final component of life. Stevens states carvings were “respectfully presented to have its eyes opened before the Gods so that it. would be able to rid their dwelling of evil spirits and bring them blessings.”Most bungs and contents have been removed; we believe unopened ones should remain in difference to the spiritual traditional and history they represent.
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This exceptional official is one of the most significant ancestor figures in our collection. His attire, glass eyes and distinct facial features indicate a wise man of importance who commands respect. Cranes and clouds symbolize longevity, wisdom, good fortune and emphasize his high rank.
Graceful heavenly attendant carrying offerings with ribbon winding around her, a nod to the phrase “May longevity bring blessings.” Elegant and serene demeanor honoring the being she attends.
This sweet diminutive antique-Chinese-wood-carving of an enlightened Buddhist attendant on a double lotus base that was commissioned by the proud father to celebrate and bless a marriage as indicated by the inscription on the rear 陈门李氏双全 that indicates that it belonged to the Lee family. Although its meaning is not entirely clear, it appears to…
This pair is VA’s most unique and finely crafted Kitchen God couple. Wearing beautifully carved robes, clasping Hu tablets, they have approachable features and subtly smiling lips. The painted character on the base of each is a wish for “happiness.” These exceptional consecrated and rare pieces are in excellent condition with a fine patina. Kitchen Gods radiate warmth, especially when placed near the stove and are unique house warming or wedding gifts and add positive chi and enhance feng-shui in any home.
Taoist official home altar carving painted on front and back with red, gilt and lacquer. Hands under ritual cloth symbolically holding a hu tablet associated with Taoist officials. Taoist were responsible for protecting against evil in this life, Buddhist for souls in next life.
This ancestor figure, carved in boxwood the preferred wood softwood during the Qing Dynasty, is portrayed in the characteristic pose of a Chinese civilian official, grasping his official’s belt with his right hand to demonstrate his important stature – which was really not so important for this gentleman, given his humble seating furniture and his modest attire. His right hand rests on the his knee as he sits erect on a thick low-back pedestal. Unlike many officials who are serious, this one is more approachable, with simple deeply carved smiling features, high arching brows and a black painted mustache and beard.
Reverent female Taoist attendant holding offering plate of 3 dumplings or fruits symbolizing 3 ancient gold or silver coins as a symbol of wealth and a wish for passing 3 imperial examination levels to assure the family’s status and financial stability.
Rare Nanhai Guanyin with lobed crown of 5 “Dhyani” Tantric Buddhas of Wisdom seated on rocky outcrop before her cave on Putuo, showing Vajrayana influence rarely seen for Nanhai Guanyin. Gilt surface reflects personal devotion and personal wealth.
Taoist God of Wealth (Caishen) portrayed as benevolent authoritative figure associated with wealth: holds tael, robe with coin decorations, painted with red and gold.
Rare statue of Guanyin held up by 4 creatures in hell remind us that people, like demons, can change and reach enlightenment. Demons are just obstacles – greed, aversion, and ignorance – to overcome through good deeds and thoughts,
White clad Guanyin in royal ease and karana mudra to expel evil, remove problems and rid sickness or other negativities rarely used for Guanyin. Consecrated for home altar use.
Guanyin sits on an elaborate lotus throne held by 8 long stemmed and 1 flat leaf lotus as an enlightened being. 5-lobed crown reflects her stature as Buddhist royalty.
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