Ader
216
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Ivory statuette of a Taoist immortal, China, Ming dynasty (1…
See original version (French)
216
-
Ivory statuette of a Taoist immortal, China, Ming dynasty (1…
See original version (French)
Estimate €1,200 - €1,500
Voluntary lot
Description
Ivory statuette of a Taoist immortal, China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Carved in the round from an elephant tusk, this figure depicts the immortal Shou Lao (Shouxing), the Taoist deity of longevity. He is depicted standing, clad in a long robe with wide sleeves falling to the ground, cinched at the waist by a knotted belt whose ends drape elegantly at the front. His face, radiating serenity, is characterised by a high, domed forehead—a characteristic attribute of the immortal—whilst a long, finely engraved beard cascades down to his chest. His right hand, with the index finger delicately extended, holds a stationary fan—a symbol of wisdom and spiritual authority—whilst his left hand is concealed within the loose sleeve in a traditional posture of contemplation. The hairstyle is held in place by a headband extended by two ribbons falling down the back. The reverse, deliberately understated, highlights the natural curve of the tusk as well as the veining, the honey-coloured patina and the ancient cracks in the ivory. Through the understated nature of its modelling, the balance of its proportions and the finesse of the engraving, this sculpture follows in the tradition of scholarly representations from the late Ming dynasty, when effigies of Shou Lao were particularly sought after as symbols of longevity, happiness and prosperity.
Height: 23.5 cm; gross weight (including plinth): 363 g
Antique patina, natural cracks in the ivory, even wear on the reliefs, minor imperfections and old restorations consistent with its age.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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