Antique Chinese Carved Hardwood Shoulao Riding a Deer With Metal Inlay, Circa 1900

Details

Description

Striking antique Chinese carved hardwood figure depicting Shoulao, the Star God of Longevity, riding an auspicious deer, dating from the … Read more Striking antique Chinese carved hardwood figure depicting Shoulao, the Star God of Longevity, riding an auspicious deer, dating from the late 19th to early 20th century.

The finely carved figure portrays the bearded immortal with his characteristic enlarged forehead, flowing robes and long beard, seated astride a slender deer.

Behind him rises a gnarled staff hung with double gourds, while an auspicious object is held before him. The lively expression, deeply carved beard and folds of the robes give the figure considerable sculptural character.

Particularly attractive is the extensive metal-wire inlay decoration covering the robes and body of the deer. Delicate scrolling, cloud-like and floral motifs create a subtle contrast with the rich dark surface of the hardwood.

Shoulao, also known as Shouxing, is one of the traditional Chinese Star Gods and represents longevity. The deer frequently accompanies him in Chinese art and carries additional associations with longevity, prosperity and good fortune.

Comparable Chinese hardwood carvings of Shoulao riding a deer are documented from the late Qing and early 20th-century periods.

The group is carved with an integral stylized rocky base.

The sculpture displays authentic age-related wear and several old losses. Most notably, the upper section of the staff behind Shoulao is missing, and there appear to be small losses to the tips of the deer’s antlers. Some minor areas of the decorative metal inlay are also absent. Surface scratches, rubbing, small chips and variations in the dark patina are present throughout.

These condition issues are clearly visible in the detailed photographs and have been taken into account in the pricing.

Despite these losses, the sculpture retains strong decorative presence, intricate detail and an appealing aged patina.

China
Late 19th / early 20th century, circa 1890–1920
Carved hardwood with metal-wire inlay

Dimensions:
Height: 15 in. (38 cm)
Width: 6.7 in. (17 cm)
Depth: 3.1 in. (8 cm) See less