Taoist bronze figure China, Ming dynasty, 16th century

About the Item

In the heart of ancient China, within the resplendent Ming dynasty, a masterpiece was cast in bronze, a testament to a culture steeped in mysticism and spirituality. This Taoist bronze figure, a relic from the 16th century, transcends mere metalwork; it is a portal into a world where legend and art converge. With a dark patina that has weathered the ages, this figure stands as a sentinel of time, a guardian of ancient wisdom. It portrays Nezha, a deity of Taoist folklore, standing resolutely upon a rugged rock. In the midst of this barren terrain, he is a symbol of strength and resilience, an embodiment of the human spirit's unyielding nature. In Nezha's grasp, a Ruyi scepter emerges, an emblem of authority and divine power. It is a reminder of the sacred teachings of Taoism, where balance and harmony are sought through enlightenment and self-discovery. Nezha's connection to this symbol signifies his role as a celestial enforcer, a force of order in a world that can sometimes teeter into chaos. At his side stands a crane, the majestic bird of longevity and grace. Its presence is not mere coincidence; it is a profound gesture in the language of symbolism. The crane, with its graceful demeanor and connection to the heavens, represents a bridge between the earthly realm and the celestial. It whispers of transcendence, of the soul's journey towards enlightenment. As you gaze upon this Taoist bronze figure, you are transported to an era when art was a conduit for spirituality. The meticulous craftsmanship and the dark patina tell a tale of time's passage, of countless hands that have cherished and revered this deity. It's as if the figure itself carries the weight of centuries, a silent witness to the ebb and flow of human history. In this exquisite work of art, the Ming dynasty's devotion to Taoism and the esoteric beliefs of ancient China are etched into every curve and contour. Nezha's stoic presence and his sacred attributes beckon you to explore the depths of faith and mystery, to connect with a time when bronze figures like these were not just statues, but vessels of spirituality. This Taoist bronze figure, a treasure from the 16th century, invites you to stand on the precipice of history, to peer into the soul of a culture that sought transcendence through art and faith. It is a poignant reminder that even in the passage of centuries, the quest for spiritual enlightenment remains a timeless and unyielding journey.

Dimensions:

Height: 12.01 in (30.5 cm)Width: 6.89 in (17.5 cm)Depth: 3.15 in (8 cm)

Style:

Ming (Of the Period)

Materials and Techniques:

Bronze

Place of Origin:

China

Period:

16th Century

Date of Manufacture:

1700