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Antique Rare Finely Molded Terracotta Luohan Head China Qing Dynasty

Offered by: Tishu

Description
A rare fired-clay (terracotta) head of a Luohan with an expressive face circa 18th century or earlier of Chinese Qing Dynasty. Luohans (also known as Arhats) are followers and disciples of Buddha who achieved the enlightenment in their lifetimes. Beginning in the ninth century, the Chinese worship of Luohan and their depiction in art evolved primarily in the context of the Chan (Zen) sect of Buddhism. Statues of Arhats are always found in the Buddhist temple, sometimes up to five hundreds, surrounding the Buddha. In Chinese Buddhism culture, some of them come with colorful stories that reflected in their body, face and accoutrements held in their hands. Most survived pieces were carved in stone and wood, due to the nature of the materials, stoneware such as stucco, terracotta and ceramic are less common.
This terracotta head is molded with a very expressive facial expression that appears to be an exaggerated laugh but could also be a grimace of good nature. Left with a natural clay surface, the smooth bald head (as Luohans were depicted traditionally) contrast with the raised bushy eyebrows and folded wrinkle lines on the face, creating an earthy ambience with quite a humorous imagery. The square opening under the neck indicates how the head was attached to the body by using wood core.
The piece is conservatively dated to 18th century Qing dynasty but is possibly much older in Ming Dynasty.
Nicely presented on a tall dark wood base custom-made with step details. The head measures 11.25 inches high and is not permanently fixed to the vase and will be packed separately for shipping.
Reference: for a much earlier stone Luohan head with a laughing expression, see 60.73.1 in the collection of Metropolitan Museum of Art.
For a glazed pottery Luohan head with a laughing face see lot 67 in Bonham sale Fine Chinese Art May 17th, 2018.

More Information

Origin:	China
Period:	18th Century
Materials:	terracotta, wood
Condition:	Good. Fine antique condition with patinated natural clay surface, occasional minute chips and variation of color throughout, a few surface crack lines around the lower neck. Wood base with minor wear as expected.
Creation Date:	18th century
Styles / Movements:	Asian, Traditional
Patterns:	Asian/Oriental, Handmade
Incollect Reference #:	819477

Dimensions

W.	8 in;	H.	23 in;	D.	8 in;
W.	20.32 cm;	H.	58.42 cm;	D.	20.32 cm;

Message from Seller:

Tishu, based in Atlanta, GA, offers a diverse collection ranging from Neolithic art to 20th-century collectibles, with a focus on Mid-century design, Japanese and Korean art, Asian textiles, and Contemporary Aboriginal art. Driven by a passion for timeless beauty, the gallery is open by appointment only and offers works that span 5,000 years of history. Reach them at 305-400-0561 or tishu@tishugallery.com.