Late 18th century (Qianlong period or slightly later), c. 1760–1800

An impressive carved and polychromed wooden figure depicting a kneeling Buddhist temple attendant or novice monk in an attitude of prayer, retaining a substantial proportion of its original painted decoration and traditional gesso preparation.

The figure is carved from substantial sections of hardwood with traditional multi-block construction, the underside showing characteristic hand tool marks, long-term oxidation and historic shrinkage consistent with age. The surviving white gesso ground displays natural craquelure throughout, with remnants of the original mineral pigments including the facial decoration and robe.

The attendant has a serene, contemplative expression with elongated earlobes, finely modelled eyelids and sensitively carved facial features. The robe retains traces of its original green pigment over the chalk ground.

Examination under ultraviolet light indicates that the surviving surface is substantially consistent, with evidence of later sympathetic restoration limited to isolated areas. A modern adhesive deposit formerly present on the crown has been carefully removed without disturbing the original surface.

Condition is good for a temple sculpture of this age, with expected wear from devotional use, historic paint loss, old inactive worm damage, minor repairs and age-related shrinkage. Overall, the figure presents exceptionally well and retains considerable originality.

Height: 50 cm

A highly decorative and increasingly sought-after example of Chinese Qing dynasty devotional sculpture, suitable for collectors of Asian art, Buddhist sculpture and early religious carvings..

Dimensions: 50cm High, 30cm deep, 25cm width

Price breakdown: Carved Wood Figure - £4600, Courier/Delivery Fee UK MAINLAND ONLY - £50