Lot 3034
  • 3034

A BOXWOOD FIGURE OF BODHIDHARMA QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY |

Estimate
70,000 - 90,000 HKD
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Description

  • 15.3 cm, 6 in.
the bald deity standing barefoot, depicted wearing long robes falling loosely off one shoulder and revealing his bare chest, the hems incised with a chevron band, his hands held within the long sleeves in front of his lower chest, the bamboo smoothly patinated to a chestnut-brown tone

Condition

The tips of the feet have been stabilised. There are minute flakes to the fragile extremities, including the edges of the robes.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

Catalogue Note

The present figure of Bodhidharma is especially notable for its fine modelling; the robes fall in naturalistic folds, entirely covering the figure’s hands and creating an attractive contrast with the bare chest and bald head. Furthermore, the surface has been expertly finished to enhance the warm and attractive colour of the wood. Compare a slightly larger figure of an ascetic included in the exhibition Wood from the Scholar's Table. Chinese Hardwood Carvings and Scholar's Articles, Altfield Gallery, Hong Kong, 1984, cat. no. 94. See also one attributed to the late Ming dynasty in the Palace Museum, Beijing, illustrated in The Complete Collection of Treasures of the Palace Museum: Bamboo, Wood, Ivory and Rhinoceros Horn Carvings, Hong Kong, 2001, no. 14.