19th Century Sculptures and Carvings

This carved stone stele depicts the historical Buddha, known also as Shaka, Shakyamuni, or Siddhartha Gautama. Seated in perpetual meditation, the Buddha embodies virtues of wisdom and composure. Hand-carved of limestone in the style of Northern Wei (386-535) statuary, the Buddha is depicted upon a lotus plinth with legs crossed in lotus position. His hands are held downwards in bhumisparsha mudra, a gesture representing the moment that the Buddha claimed the earth as witness to his awakening. The Buddha has a peaceful, benevolent expression and is framed by a halo of concentric circles. His figure is surrounded by attendant bodhisattvas, carved in relief on the curved stele behind and platform below. Leafy tree branches add a naturalistic touch to the background, wrapping around to the back of the stele to form a canopy above a second, smaller Buddha...

Japanese Shibayama cards case holder. This is a lovely late 19th century Imperial Japan, Gold lacquer and Shibayama cards case. Created during the the Meiji period (1868-1912), the ...

Material: wood 55,3 cm high 14,2 cm wide and 14,2 cm deep Weight: 4.26 kgs Abhaya mudra Originating from Thailand 19th century - Rattanakosin period

This 19th Century bronze male lion is in very good condition. No significant damage to the lion or its lacquered wood base. The left glass eye of the lion is missing. The joint where...

A crisply carved antique Chinese red cinnabar lacquer lidded round box with blue enamel interior and brass fittings. The "dragon's blood" trinket box has a fine peony, foliate and fl...

On offer is an impressively large and finely cast Sino-Tibetan gilt antiquebronze statue of Vajrasattva Bodhisattva, circa 19th century maybe earlier. The deity is depicted seating i...

Laying Foetus From our Japanese collection, we are pleased to offer this Japanese Edo Period Skeleton Netsuke. The Skeleton Netsuke is carved from Boxwood depicting a skeleton in t...

Antique Chinese Carved Hetain Light Celadon Jade " Archer's Ring", 19th Century. Good use of russet skin coloring, 19th-century. -Dimensions and Density- Jade: Width: 1.125" Depth:...

This is an old Japanese "Kobo Daishi" wooden figure. "Kobo Daishi" means "Kukai". "Kukai" was a monk from the early Heian period. His posthumous name was "Kobo Daishi". He is the fou...

Material: wood 60 cm high 25 cm wide and 21,7 cm deep Weight: 6.5 kgs Gilded with 24 krt. gold Originating from Burma Late 19th century With inlayed eyes Has normally 'real'...

A Meiji lacquered box in the shape of a seated lady made by Meigetsusai Kazuyoshi. This is a n extremely rare decorative box made in the shape of a ...

Antique pair of Chinese 18th century Qing dynasty openwork wood carving Gilded screen work wall hanging architectural elements. This pair of Chinese pan...

Chinese light celadon jade libation cup from early 19th, possibly 18th century. The item is executed in archaistic Ming style.

Antique Chinese Hetain Celedon Jade "Double Gourd" from the 19th Century. The hand-carved of the loverly gourd shape with the flora to wrap the gourd. The color is presented in celed...

Just discovered from an old southern Japanese area garden and now in our Kyoto warehouse. Call or message us to reserve- now en route in our container from our Kyoto warehouse Fo...

A sweet and lovely Chinese bamboo carving of the sage Dongfang Shuo, mid-Qing dynasty, 18th century, China. Well carved form a single section o...

Description: A fine depiction of Guanyin, possessing the regal tranquillity that the Chinese Bodhisattva of compassion has come to be visually associated with. Marked by an urna signifying her spiritual enlightenment and crowned with a diadem depicting the Buddha Amitabha, the figure is immediately recognisable as Guanyin. Her androgynous figure is gracefully poised in the Lalit asana or “royal ease”, the pose classical in representations of the deity. The figure is asymmetric, with the weight of her supple form falling upon her left hand placed against the base, her right knee raised and left pendant. Her right hand rests upon her raised knee, delicately pinching at her draped attire. At first unassuming, this gesture may be suggestive of the Apana Mudra, the seal of purification. This Mudra is associated with physical wellbeing, fecundity and the cleansing of the body. Though she is adorned in the princely garb of dhoti, she bears features of idealised feminine beauty as prescribed in Asian art. With plump cheeks and near pouted lips, her full face gazes down upon the viewer with an empathetic and half-lidded gaze, upholding her title as ‘One who hears the cries of the world.’ Notes on the item: Guanyin is the Chinese interpretation of Avalokiteshvara, the Indian Bodhisattva of compassion. The term “Bodhisattva” is derived from the Sanskrit “Bodhi”, meaning ‘awakening’ or ‘enlightenment’, combined with “Sattva”, meaning ‘spirit’ or ‘being’, referring to one on the path to achieving enlightenment. Bodhisattvas in Mayahana Buddhism are recognised as figures who have effectively achieved enlightenment yet relinquish their accension to nirvana in order to remain amongst mankind in the ultimate act of compassion to aid as spiritual guides. As such, the Bodhisattva inhabit a liminal space between samsara and nirvana; enlightened beings that maintain a relationship with humanity that buddhas cannot, as attaining Buddhahood necessitates the abandonment of all worldly attachments, including mankind. Guanyin’s very name, ‘One who hears the cries of the world’ highlights this role as a compassionate figure who acknowledges the suffering and strife of man. Along with Mahāsthāmaprāpta, a fellow bodhisattva, Guanyin serves as an attendant to Buddha Amitabha, with these three deities recognised as the Three Sages of Western Pure Land Buddhism, a sect of Mayahana Buddhism popular in East Asia. Avalokiteshvara is commonly posited to have been adopted from Indian Buddhism into China as Guanyin around 200-400 CE, however it was the Tang dynasty (618-907) which saw the popularisation of the deity. By the Ming (1358–1644) and Qing (1644–1911) dynasties, Guanyin held the position as the most popular female deity in China. The unique state of religion in China held no monolithic canon regarding Buddhism and saw the assimilation of several belief systems, primarily Daoism, Buddhism and Confucianism. Consequently, Guanyin became a deity to be revered beyond Buddhism alone, appointed as both an official imperial deity and Daoist deity in the 12th century. Guanyin may also be seen to fulfil the role of idealised femininity as prescribed by Confucianism, with the scarcity of female Chinese deities perhaps accounting for the gradual gender shift Guanyin underwent. The Indian Avalokiteshvara is unequivocally recognised as male, whilst the supposed gender of Guanyin remains contentious. Although there is a clear shift from the masculine Avalokiteshvara towards a more feminine representation, it is unclear if Guanyin is understood to be entirely feminine, to inhabit qualities of both genders or to be elevated beyond gender entirely, embodying neither. Depictions of Guanyin are highly androgynous, which some believe lends credence towards Guanyin symbolising the unity of dualistic forces as recognised in Daoism, displaying the anthropomorphism of yin and yang. Comparative Analysis: Market comparisons of similar Qing Dynasty polychrome figures of Guanyin include lot 767 (no.2) From Christies ‘Important Chinese Ceramics and Works of Art,’ New York, 25 March 2022, with the price realised USD 52,920 (Estimate USD 20,000 – USD 30,000). Christies also auctioned a comparable polychrome Guanyin...

Antique Southeast Asian Polychrome Wooden Oversized Temple Horse from India. Large Antique Southeast Asian Carved Polychrome Wood Horses. Antique Southeast Asian carved wood model of a parade horse. the body with allover polychrome, saddle and reins carved in high relief, the tail lacquered. 19th century hand carved oversized wooden Indian temple horse...

A rare 19th century hard to find Japanese Usubata Flower Planter Cart "Norimono", Late Meiji Period. Japan, this handsome quality old style "garden cart" ikebana planter is an exceptionally rare find and an authentic old work of Japanese art. Brilliantly designed and a handsome plant presentation with removable ikebana vase inserted into an openwork wicker basket set on a wheeled cart...

Unusual antique Victorian quality hardwood walking stick having an unusual quality hardwood antique Victorian walking stick with a carv...

This truly a magnificent piece. Stunning. Beautiful. Supremely serene. Meticulously hand carved in such fine and amazing detail (see hands and flowing robes). Gilded throughout. Sea...

Late Qing, pre-1891 carved soapstone figure, Chinese. Elegantly carved of a wise man holding a baby & a peach on a carved rocky outcropping soapstone attached stand. Unmarked. 7 5/8"...

An antique carved teak architectural panel from the 19th century, with floral and foliage décor. This antique carved teak architectural panel from the 19th century captivates with it...

19th Century Chinese Dragon Carving. Qing Dynasty Double Sided Wood Carving of Eight Dragons inside a circle medallion style. Unique wood carv...

This exquisite pair of antique wooden Burmese monk statues, originating from Burma (modern-day Myanmar) and crafted in the renowned Mandalay style, showcases exceptional artistry and...

Material: marble 57 cm high 52 cm wide and 29 cm deep Weight: 61.55 kgs Mandalay style Bhumisparsha mudra Originating from Burma 19th century The stone seems more 'alabaster', it is...

Called ‘pagode’ (or pagoda) figures, these Meissen Porcelain models are based on the sculptures of deities found in pagoda temples in the Far East. Meissen began to produce these kinds of porcelain figures in the early 18th century, prompted by the demand for the Far Eastern ‘pagodes’ being imported into Europe at this time. The Meissen factory in Germany was founded in 1709 and was the first producer of true porcelain wares in Europe. The company’s main patron was Augustus II the Strong, the Elector of Saxony and King of Poland. Meissen was, and continues to be, famous for its tableware, vases, candelabra, animal sculptures and figures, like this pair, which were often graceful and light-hearted in character. These models feature the Meissen mark of the two blue crossed swords on their undersides. These porcelain models take the form of a Chinese couple...

A beautiful 10 lb, gilt bronze statue of Tibetan White Tara. Seated in dhyanasana on a 4-tier lotus pedestal rising above holy beast on padmasana (single petal row lotus throne), both hands in Karana mudra to expel evils. Her small exquisite face with serene expression, with downcast eyes under high arched brows, wearing a high crown and long beaded necklaces ands rosette earrings. The beast with vivid expressions, bells and a saddle draped...

A captivating pair of late 19th-century bronze statues depicting Chinese officials. The left figure portrays an imperial advisor, his full face adorned with almond-shaped eyes beneath arched brows and a pursed mouth, surmounted by an elaborate crown. His hands are clasped together, holding a Ruyi scepter, while he is attired in an open-neck robe. The right figure, an older advisor, shares similar facial features but is distinguished by a long beard and a flat crown, symbolizing his seniority. Clad in a closed robe befitting his age and rank, he holds a jade scepter...

Antique Indian Damchiya - Wedding Closet Material : wood 114 cm high 123 cm wide and 61 cm deep 19th century This Damchiya or bridal closet was given to the bride at wedding ceremoni...

A Chinese scholar rock carved from a natural lapis stone and displayed on a brocade wrapped stand circa late 19th century Qing Dynasty. The brightly blue lapis was considered as am exotic gemstone in China and mostly imported from Persia through the silk road. While not a conventional rock types of materials for scholar stones, it is occasionally carved and polished into smaller Gongshi to be displayed and meditated upon in the scholar's study. Similar approaches were also done with jade, malachite and turquoise, even petrified wood, Chenxiang Agarwood, roots in spirited form, porcelain and even bronze in rock forms. The lapis was carved into a mountain form with stacked rocks...

Sculptural signed Okimono from the Japanese Meiji period (1868-1912). Very rare, unusual and large sculptural assembling of a dysplaying piece of okimono. Created in Japan during the imperial period of the Meiji (1868-1912). This extraordinary okimono was carefully carved depicting a group of three intricately and realistically rendered carousing skeletons (Gaikotsu) in relax and resting position, drinking and smoking. Two of them, probably males representations are resting on a wicker sofa. The third, is a woman seated in a lower stool...

A captivating example of Southeast Asian wood carving, this piece likely served as a pedestal within a temple setting, potentially for a drum. The elaborate carvings feature figures ...

Rare and Hard To Find 19th Century From China's Qing dynasty (1644-1912) a hard to find solid limestone finely carved round top pedestal - perfect for displaying your indoor or outd...

A Beautiful Antique bronze Thai Monk statue Material : bronze 37,5 cm high 30 cm wide and 17,3 cm deep Gilded with 24 krt. gold Dhyana mudra 19th century Wei...

19th Century Gilt Bronze Garuda Buddha Statue – A Symbol of Power, Protection, and Wisdom This 19th Century Gilt Bronze Garuda Buddha Statue is a rare and powerful representation of Garuda, the mythical bird deity revered in Buddhism and Hinduism as a symbol of strength, protection, and divine wisdom. Garuda is known as the protector against evil forces, a celestial being with immense power to ward off negativity and bring spiritual enlightenment. Crafted from gilt bronze, this statue features intricate detailing, showcasing Garuda’s fierce expression, outstretched wings, and dynamic posture, radiating divine energy. The golden finish enhances its sacred presence, making it an exceptional piece for altars, temples, meditation spaces, and antique collections. Ideal for collectors of Buddhist and Hindu art...

19th Century carved wood panel with lotus bud motive. An Architectural Element from a Buddhist Monastery in Northen Thailand. A Lotus Bud representi...

A truly beautiful and supremely serene Japanese Amida Nyorai Buddha. A magnificent work. Meticulously hand carved in such fine and amazing detail (see hands and flowing robes). Gilded throughout. Seated with narrowed eyes in deep meditation and hands in Buddhist Abhaya Mudra position offering a blessing of protection, reassurance, peace, and benevolence. This hand position, also known as the "fear not" gesture, was achieved by Buddha immediately following his enlightenment. This work is from the late Edo period, (1603-1868)/ early Meiji period (1868-1912). From a California collection. Would be a fantastic addition to any Japanese or Asian artifacts/buddha collection or eye-catching stand-alone accent work in about any setting. One of the best Japanese Buddha sculptures...

This gorgeous Japanese red lacquer traveling shrine (zushi) protects a miniature statue of Bishamonten, the Buddhist God of Warfare here depicted as an armor-clad warrior. A fearsome protector, he is thought to defend sacred places, punish evil-doers, expel demons and bestow wealth. In this example, Bishamonten stands atop a crouching demon, dressed in finely painted armor...

Japanese Satsuma, a fine and monumental 18" Meiji period charger Ozara with rare motif: Captain fisherman and his fish. Depicting a tale of Urashima Tarō* (see below), Signed Jyukan pottery by Chinjyu Makoto, in a lovely gold gilt and red detailed hand-painted composition Age: 1880-1900. Dimensions: 18 inches diameter and includes owner's signed wooden presentation box, tomobako. Hand made and hand painted. Finest quality. Provenance: Old Southern Japanese collection. Urashima Tarō (浦島 太郎?) is a Japanese legend about a fisherman who holds a fishing pole and rescues a turtle and is rewarded for this with a visit to Ryūgū-jō, the palace of Ryūjin, the Dragon God, under the sea. He stays there for three days and upon his return to his village, finds himself 300 years in the future. Finest quality. Largest size. Original collector box tomobako included. Lifetime guarantee of authenticity: All of our Asian works of art come with our Lifetime Authenticity Guarantee. We are members of the North American Japanese Garden Association (NAJGA) specializing for ten years now in old and authentic Japanese stone...

A large and powerfully cast Chinese bronze censer in the form of two Buddhistic lions, Qing dynasty, late 19th century. The censer is well cast with a strong sense of movement, featuring a pair of fierce Buddhistic lions playfully antagonizing each other. Locked in a mock battle, the smaller lion...

Material: wood 50 cm high 17,4 cm wide and 13,5 cm deep Weight: 2.492 kgs Gilded with 24 krt. gold Mandalay style Originating from Burma 19th century.  

This Late 19th / early 20th century Antique wooden Temple cabinet is a stunning testament to the rich spiritual and artistic heritage of Burma. Crafted from wood and standing at a ...

Late 19th-early 20th century Tribal mask, West Nepal A large mask from West Nepal with a small grin and bared teeth surrounded with pink powder, faint traces of which can also be se...

Presenting an extraordinary Large and Exceptional Japanese Meiji Period Tokyo School Bronze Sculpture depicting a delightful ensemble of six energe...

Antique wooden Zushi (miniature shrine, the "house of the Gods") with 2 wooden figurines of Daikoku & Ebisu - from Tohoku area., Japan. Manufactured circa 1860s - 1900s (late Edo to ...

An Indian late 19th, early 20th century carved and painted wooden fragment depicting Parvati. A commanding presence in carved wood, this antique Indian sculpture...

Small antique Southeast Asian cast bronze buddha head sculpture with verdigris patina mounted on a black base wood stand. Bronze Sukhothai style Buddha bronze head with green patina,...

Antique Southeast Asian Polychrome Wooden Oversized Temple Horse from India. Large Antique Southeast Asian Carved Polychrome Wood Horses. Antique Southeast Asian carved wood model of a parade horse. the body with allover polychrome, saddle and reins carved in high relief, the tail lacquered. 19th century hand carved oversized wooden Indian temple horse...

A spectacular Japanese cast, carved, and parcel gilt bronze sculpture, okimono, of a kneeling samurai archer, signed Kiyotsugu (died 1894), Meiji ...

on fitted wooden base; 3in(D) x 8in(W) x 10.8in(H) are the overall dimensions of the malachite carving with the wooden base

Burmese wooden tray. Age: Burma, Mandalay Period, 19th Century Size: Diameter 27 C.M. / Height 15.3 C.M. Condition: Nice condition overall (some ex...

Late 19th-early 20th century Tribal mask, West Nepal A mask from West Nepal with a rather heart shaped facial plane. There are three large iron staples, two of which may have secure...

Rare and unusual 19th century monumental Chinese rosewood brush pot carved from a large, solid trunk. Beautiful crafted with a subtle hourglass cylindrical shape. Featuring rich and ...

This 19th-century hand-carved polychromatic wood figure depicts a powerful Guardian, poised on a recumbent tiger with his right fist raised in a striking motion, his eyes bulging wit...

This Antique Burmese wooden Mandalay Buddha statue from Burma during the 19th century, is a fine example of Mandalay style craftsmanship. It stands at a height of 46,5 cm and boasts ...

Material: wood 76 cm high 31 cm diameter Weight: 4 kgs Shan (Tai Yai) style Originating from Burma Late 19th / early 20th century.

Paint and polychromed gold and silver corona gilt with swagged "draperies" ( one replaced ) and Tassels, Italy. 19th Century.