Rare And Early Chinese Large Gilded Bronze Arhat Statue, Figure of a Luohan H 31" W 17" Depth 14" | 稀有早期中国大型镀金青铜罗汉雕像，罗汉的形象 | In Buddhism, Luóhàns, or Arhats in Sanskrit, are disciples of Shakyamuni Buddha, and range in number from 16-500. With facial features rich in expression, with thin eyebrows, long eyes, a pronounced nose, and thin lips. Colored pigment on the eyes, eyelashes, lips, and protruding forehead. The figure is shown seated in Padmasana, his Han-style monk's robe is worn around his torso and draped over the left shoulder leaving the right shoulder exposed and falling in folds below the legs as if draped over an edge, the neck creased. The right hand in Karana Mudra symbolizes the dispelling negativity, warding off of evil spirits, and alleviating obstacles such as sickness or negative thoughts. The left hand with the palm held up signifies the act of teaching or reassurance. Character marks (左二) on the left of the underside of the overhanging robe, possibly indicating order of placement within a temple. Resting on a hand-painted scrolling lotus carved wood base.

The sculpture boasts meticulous craftsmanship, particularly evident in the extremities - the hands and arms appear to have been cast independently. Aperture within the head's central cavity, accessible through the ear canals. Notably, the nostril perforations are artfully executed to remain superficial, not connecting to the inner sanctum. The visage, rendered with refined precision, features almond-shaped eyes and distended earlobes.

Stylistically similar to the Tibetan-influenced statuary produced or commissioned by the Ming (明朝) court during the Yongle (明永乐) reign (1403-1424) and Xuande (明宣德) reign (1426-1435), whose style formation originated in the Yuan Dynasty.

A video of the statue may be found here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-chG_Ww80Z8 | A video of the inside of the statue may be found here: https://youtu.be/OjK0JsoWmPc

Prospective bidders are kindly advised that a deposit is required, and additional verification measures are in place for this lot. If you intend to place a bid, please contact us at bidding@dumoart.com to confirm identity, pay deposit, and provide qualifications. | Provenance: Property from the Estate of Barbara Jean and Kerry Nicholl, Harrison Township, MI.

Has detached right index finger and missing tip to left little finger. Losses to gilding as evident in photographs. A very high-quality bronze whose age could be older than the description indicates. The bronze weighs approximately 140 lbs. The carved wood base weighs approximately 20 lbs.  | Please note all lots show signs of wear commensurate with age and use, and the lack of a statement regarding condition does not imply the lot is in perfect condition or completely free from defects or the effects of aging. Unless otherwise stated, all information provided is the opinion of DuMouchelles' specialists. Should you have any specific questions regarding the condition of this lot, please use the “Request Condition Report” or “Ask a Question” buttons or email conditions@dumoart.com.