清初 竹根雕東方塑坐像

the immortal finely carved in the round reclining against a craggy rock formation, dressed in a long flowing robe fastened at the waist with a ribbon, clutching a branch of leafy peach in his right hand, his left hand across his lap pointing his fore-finger towards the auspicious fruit, the bamboo root richly patinated to a golden-brown colour, stand

There is a tiny chip to the edge of the fabric covering the head of the immortal, but beside this the figure is in excellent condition.
"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."

This carving of the Han dynasty scholar official and court jester to Emperor Wu, Dongfang Shuo, is closely related to a bamboo figure, from the collection of Wang Shixiang, included in the exhibition Bamboo Carving of China, China Institute of America, New York, 1983, cat. no. 16, and later sold at Christie's Hong Kong, 27th May 2009, lot 1935.

Dongfang is legendary for stealing peaches from Xiwangmu's (Queen Mother of the West) garden, thereby giving himself the power of becoming immortal. The present figure stands out for its fine carving, especially the sage's delicate facial features and the detailed depiction of the many folds in his robe as well as its generous large size.