Origin: China. Circa: Qing, 19th Century
H 18 in.(46cm), W 10 in.(25cm), D 6 in.(15cm)
Condition: replaced seat and scepter
A
rare Three-eyed Taoist Deity in warrior helmet, serene moon face with eyes downcast
in meditation, hands hidden in long-sleeves and holding a scepter. The main body
and the portrait-quality face are in very good condition, the lacquer on his back
is aged to a dappled softness. There are a few minor splits and a restoration
near his knees. Although the identity of this deity is unknown. As indicated by
the size and gesture of the statue, he was likely worshipped in a small Taoist
temple.
The
technique of joined block wood carving is generally seen in Japanese Buddha statues;
which made this Chinese carved wood Deity a rarity. Chinese wood carvings in the
19th century were often applied with stucco for the first layer, then painted
with black and red lacquer, and sprinkled with a finish layer of powder gold dust.