Polychrome Wooden Sculpture of a Chinese Immortal on a Mythical Beast, 1st Half of 20th Century

ID: k02176
Category: Other
Subcategory: Wooden Decorations, Toys and Games
Location: Old store

Condition: Použité, poškozené

Description: This hand-carved wooden sculpture depicts a figure from Chinese mythology, likely one of the Eight Immortals or a deity of longevity, riding a mythical beast. The statuette features a red undercoat (bolus) onto which gold leaf was applied, a traditional Chinese technique for decorating ornamental objects. The dynamic posture of the rider and the detailed elaboration of both the robes and the animal's mane attest to skilled craftsmanship, while the preserved patina and the red undercoat showing through in places give the piece a desirable antique appearance. However, the item is visibly damaged – the rider has a broken part of his right hand (including the attribute originally held) and the gilding shows significant signs of wear over time, especially on exposed areas and the base. Despite these flaws, it remains an aesthetically impressive example of Asian folk art, which was a popular collectible in European interiors during the last century.

900 Kč / €38