Lot 36, Auction 3/19/2026: 18th C. Chinese Qing Black Lacquer Taoist Deity

$2,340.00

In stock

East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, ca. 18th to 19th century CE. A fabulous wooden sculpture embodying a revered female Taoist deity. Standing barefoot and enveloped in the graceful folds of a long, layered robe, the goddess exudes serene power. Her visage, carved with exquisite detail, features gently downcast eyes beneath a sweeping brow, a broad, tranquil nose, and a subtle, benevolent smile. Her hair is elegantly styled in a looped top bun. Elongated ears, a significant attribute, symbolize her profound wisdom and her capacity to draw forth blessings of longevity, good fortune, and a life rich in fulfillment and success. Her hands are held in meaningful mudras, each conveying divine authority and spiritual purpose. The left hand gracefully displays the karuna mudra, a gesture deeply significant in Taoist meditation and rituals, believed to cultivate positive energy and foster a state of profound calm and peace. Size: 9.8″ L x 11.8″ W x 32.9″ H (24.9 cm x 30 cm x 83.6 cm)

This powerful protective gesture is said to dispel obstacles and negative energies that impede spiritual growth, such as fear, depression, adverse emotions, and illness.

Taoism beautifully articulates the profound interconnectedness of feminine and masculine energies, Yin and Yang, as equally vital and harmonizing forces. This elegant carving embodies the feminine principle, Yin, revered as the “Mother of all Beings.” It represents the essence of receptivity, the gentle strength of nurturing, the insightful wisdom of intuition, the power of collaboration, the depth of empathy, and the mysterious, wellspring of creative energy that permeates the universe.

Condition: Missing one finger on proper right hand; professional repair to a few other fingers. Fissures to wood, as well as nick, scratches, and abrasions to surface as shown. Otherwise, good detail with rich patina to wood. Liberal remains of lacquer and very miniscule remains of gilding.

Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired from 1990 to 2005

All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.

A Certificate of Authenticity will accompany all purchases.

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