Ader
217
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Ivory statuette of a Taoist immortal, China, Ming dynasty (1…
See original version (French)
217
-
Ivory statuette of a Taoist immortal, China, Ming dynasty (1…
See original version (French)
Estimate €1,000 - €1,500
Voluntary lot
Description
Ivory statuette of a Taoist immortal, China, Ming dynasty (1368–1644)
Carved in the round, this figure depicts the immortal Shoulao (Shouxing – ??), the Taoist god of longevity, standing in a serene pose. He is recognisable by his disproportionately domed forehead, a symbol of wisdom and longevity; his smiling face, framed by a long moustache and a finely incised beard; and the gnarled staff he holds in his right hand, carved in high relief and reminiscent of a pilgrim’s staff. His left hand holds a scroll pressed against his chest. His robe, with its ample, flowing folds, features borders engraved with geometric motifs. The reverse, deliberately understated, highlights the volume of the drapery and the natural polish of the ivory, whose cracks and honey-coloured patina bear witness to the age of the material. The sculpture, executed with great restraint, is typical of late Ming-period works intended for scholars’ study rooms, where depictions of Taoist immortals were particularly prized as symbols of happiness, longevity and prosperity.
Height: 21.5 cm; weight: 236 g
Antique patina, natural cracks in the ivory, wear and minor signs of use consistent with its age, restorations.
See original version (French)
Auto-translation. Refer to original language for legal validity.
Pictures credits: Contact the Auction House
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