Details
Description
Antique Chinese Giltwood Scholar Figure – Ming/Qing Dynasty
Rare Hand-Carved Wooden Statue with Gold Gilding – Circa 17th-19th Century
Description:
…
Read more
Antique Chinese Giltwood Scholar Figure – Ming/Qing Dynasty
Rare Hand-Carved Wooden Statue with Gold Gilding – Circa 17th-19th Century
Description:
This is a remarkable antique Chinese wooden figure, likely representing a Confucian scholar, an ancestral deity, or a Daoist official, dating from the Ming (1368–1644) or Qing Dynasty (1644–1912). Carved from solid hardwood, this statue retains traces of original gold gilding and polychrome paint, reflecting its significance in religious or ancestral worship. The hollowed compartment at the back suggests it was once part of a temple or family altar, possibly used to house prayer scrolls or spiritual offerings.
Historical Significance:
In Chinese culture, scholars and officials were highly revered, embodying wisdom, virtue, and moral leadership. Figures like this were often placed in temples, shrines, or family altars as a means of honoring esteemed ancestors or invoking blessings. The presence of gold leaf decoration indicates that this statue was commissioned for a wealthy family, scholar’s home, or temple, as gilding was reserved for prestigious and sacred objects.
Features & Condition:
Material: Hand-carved hardwood, possibly nanmu or huanghuali, used in traditional Chinese statuary.
Original Finish: Significant remnants of gold gilding, red lacquer, and painted details.
Dimensions:
• Width: 5 3/4 inches (14.6 cm)
• Depth: 5 inches (12.7 cm)
• Height: 11.88 inches (30.2 cm)
Age: Estimated to be from the 17th to 19th century, based on carving style, patina, and material.
This rare surviving example is an exquisite addition to any collection of Asian art, Buddhist/Daoist artifacts, or antique wooden sculptures.
Provenance:
Sourced from a private collection, this piece exhibits craftsmanship and cultural significance characteristic of temple or shrine statuary from historic China.
This historically significant and artistically unique piece is perfect for collectors of Asian antiques, Chinese history, and spiritual artifacts. Don’t miss the opportunity to own a genuine relic of China’s cultural heritage!
See less
- Dimensions
- 5.75ʺW × 5ʺD × 11.88ʺH
- Styles
- Asian Antique
- Chinese
- Qing
- Period
- 17th Century
- Country of Origin
- China
- Item Type
- Vintage, Antique or Pre-owned
- Materials
- Gesso
- Giltwood
- Gold Leaf
- Condition
- Good Condition, Original Condition Unaltered, Some Imperfections
- Color
- Gold
- Condition Notes
- Shows age-related cracks, paint loss, and surface wear, which are consistent with authentic antique pieces of this era. The patina … moreShows age-related cracks, paint loss, and surface wear, which are consistent with authentic antique pieces of this era. The patina and structural integrity add to its historical character and authenticity. less
Questions about the item?
Returns & Cancellations
Return Policy - All sales are final 48 hours after delivery, unless otherwise specified in the description of the product.
Related Collections
- The Haeger Potteries Models and Figurines
- Tiffany and Co. Models and Figurines
- Sandalwood Models and Figurines
- Gio Ponti Models and Figurines
- Egyptian Models and Figurines
- Richard Ginori Models and Figurines
- Societa Ceramica Italiana Models and Figurines
- Serpentine Models and Figurines
- Brass Models and Figurines
- Staffordshire Dog Figurines
- Elephant Figurines
- Cat Figurines
- Japanese Models and Figurines
- Ceramic Cats
- Jade Models and Figurines
- Bird Figurines
- Antique Model Ships
- Chinese Models and Figurines
- Herend Models and Figurines
- Dog Figurines
- Antique German Bisque Figurines
- Porcelain Birds
- Italian Models and Figurines
- Murano Glass Models and Figurines
- Angel Figurines