| Antique
Chinese Carving
Quanyin Fukien Province
Style Origin: China. Circa:
19th-early 20th century H
12.5 in.(31cm), W 3 in.(7.5cm), D 2.25 in.(5.5cm) Measurement
not including wood base
Condition:
Very Good This
intricate piece exemplifies early Chinese carvings both in style and technical
mastery. Small projecting forms and a multitude of undercuts attest to the skill
of the artist. Highly ornamented and exquisitely carved, this 19th century Chinese
carving portrays Quanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, as a pearly beauty in
Tang style clothing, graced with youthful charm and loveliness. She is flanked
by a beautifully carved peacock as high as her waist, holding a willow branch
in her right hand and carrying a basket of fish and lotus flowers in her left.
Of the many fine details, most impressive are the lush carvings of waving leaves,
the lotus flowers rising above their thin stems, the fluttering edges of the fringed
scarf, and the flowing peacock feathers along her feet. All are meticulously carved
through, each casting their own shadow through a multi-dimensional arrangement,
and overlaying in front of her figure in a unified form. Delicate and complex,
the integrity of the tusk remains untouched. With only a few minor hairline and
an age crack on her left foot, the carving is in excellent condition.
Private Collection
|