Chinese Agar Wood Buddha and Shíbā Luóhàn Carving

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Chinese agar wood Buddha and Shíbā Luóhàn carving, a finely carved and minutely detailed, agar wood statue of The Eighteen … Read more Chinese agar wood Buddha and Shíbā Luóhàn carving, a finely carved and minutely detailed, agar wood statue of The Eighteen Arhats surrounding the the buddha, who sitting in padmasana on a cushion throne with a dragon's head at his feet. The Buddha is depicted having a halo, the ushnisha covered with curls (symbolizing snails), a wanzi character (left facing swastika) on his chest, his hands in dhayana mudra. Circa Republic of China era or earlier. The finely carved, traditional, Chinese hongmu stand is included.

wanzi: left facing suavastika, symbolising night or tantric aspects of Kali, also footprints of the Buddha.

At the right shoulder of the Buddha: Xianglong Luohan, Taming Dragon Arhat. His origins are said to derive from the Buddhist monk Mahākāśyapa.

At the right knee of the Buddha: Jiánglóng Luóhàn, Taming Dragon Arhat. Precious ring with magical powers, Infinitely resourceful, vigorous and powerful, subduing a ferocious tiger.

At the left elbow of the Buddha: Qíxiàng Luóhàn, Elephant Riding Arhat. Riding an elephant with a dignified air, chanting aloud the sutras, with a heart for the humanity, eyes scanning the four corners of the universe.

At the left knee of the Buddha: Xiàoshī Luóhàn, Laughing Lion Arhat. Playful and free of inhibitions,
the lion cub leaps with joy, easily alternating tension with relaxation, rejoicing with all living things.

At the left bottom of the sculpture: Qílù Luóhàn Deer Sitting Arhat. Sitting dignified on a deer,
as if in deep thought, with perfect composure, contented with being above worldly pursuits.

Thirteen other Arhats are depicted with their associated symbols.

statue: 7.5" tall x 3.5" wide x 2" deep

stand: 5.375" square See less