Showing 97–108 of 195 results
Taoist official/priest on backless chair, arms at chest and hands covered by ritual cloth symbolically holding a hu tablet. Darkened by incense and candle smoke from ritualistic offerings it was re-lacquered probably in early 20th-century.
When ancestral images are taken out of context they are very difficult to identify so we describe them in generic terms as a Chinese Officials or Taoist Officials. This carving may represent the noted historical figure the principal regent Dorgon of the first Qing Emperor Shunzhi who ruled from 1643-1650 as a”quasi” emperor based on…
Taoist priest wearing a winged hat with a taotie warning against excess, and hands in the Sword Gesture used to cast out evil and offer blessings. Often on horses, priests were models of morality reflecting the Way of the Tao stressing harmony and oneness with nature.
This elegant antique heddle-pulley carved from a single piece of Burmese teak is topped by a hamsa, a goose-like bird and a sacred Buddhist symbol of wisdom. Auspicious symbolic animal images are believed protect the weaver, assure quality weaving, and pleases the gods and spirits. It is wonderfully weathered from time and use with minor losses with a fine patina. Mounted on a black wood base, this heddle pulley pairs well with item number 11298A.
This 19th-century miniature wood figure is a finely and whimsically carved portly seated merchant. He is depicted as a Laowai or “old foreigner” with a westernized face and hat and oversized hands placed on his knees. Seated on a platform base, he wears garments reflective of the Chinese culture at this time but wears a hat that is clearly not of Chinese origin. Other indications this charming figure is a foreigner include the roundness of his face, western facial features and oversized hands.
Lao carved Buddha statues are renowned for their delicacy and refinement. This elegant antique Buddha is depicted in the “Calling for Rain” mudra found only in Laos with his half-closed gazing downward in meditation, elegant gestures, lyrical flaring robes and graceful curves of the body reflecting the Buddha’s gentleness. The curvature, proportions and oversized head indicate the perfection, wisdom and compassion of the “Enlightened One. He stands on a multi-tiered circular and waisted base. Carved Laotian images as old and elegant as this are rare.
This inspirational, serene monk with youthful, serene, and smiling face stands on a tall pedestal symbolizing his spiritual significance. Size, pose and consecration suggest it was placed in a temple or community shrine.
Zhenwu (Perfected Warrior) one of most important and powerful Taoist deities, is revered for magical powers to suppress demonic forces. Forceful wood provincial image for personal devotion reflecting his iconography: on throne, bare feet resting on snake and tortoise, celestial scarf and maille armor.
Provincial carving of Zhenwu the Perfected Warrior, one of the most popular Taoist deities in the Ming/Qing dynasties, iconically shown standing on a snake and turtle, symbolizing those over whom he presides.
Antique carving of a Devi (Sanskrit: divine) probably a child’s toy and and protective item. Tikka on forehead, ample breasts – a wish for fertility with a shiny patina from use.
Rare mask used in Noh Opera performances depicting Zhīxiàn – a popular figure of a wise, benevolent judge who resolved local disputes and was likely used in rituals to ask the gods for blessings, health, and long life. Signs of authentic wear from dance theater performances.
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This happy benevolent couple are Taoist Earth God Tudi Gong and his wife Tudi Po placed on a home altar to assure an abundant harvest. Referred to as “Grandpa” and “Grand Ma” they wear vibrant Mandarin official’s attire, him with a mandarin square with a bird, and her with a phoenix headdress.
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