Early 20th Century Sculptures and Carvings

Tea drinking has been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries, resulting in a wide range of social customs and material traditions. In addition to tea leaves, water, and heat, the art of drinking tea (chayi) calls for a variety of teaware and utensils - both practical and decorative. This charming teapot dates to the late Qing dynasty and is hand-carved from a hollow length of bamboo to appear as though parceled by a cloth strung with tassels. The teapot has a squat, rounded form and a dark brown finish, reminiscent of Yixing red clay teapots...

Hand carved wood ebony African elephant. Handcrafted in Africa. One of the tusk is damaged

A very fine pair of large Asian bamboo root carvings of two gentleman regarding the sky dating to the first quarter of the 20th century. Two robed ...

A beautiful and exceptionally 20 1/2 inches tall classic traditional Naruko Kokeshi doll from Northern Japan. Handcrafted of wood and hand-painted ...

A massive larger than life terracotta buddha bust of Guan Yin, China, early 20th century. Broken and restored with wear and tear from enduring exposure to the elements. Size: 75 cm high. Weight: 40 kg. Guanyin, Kwanyin, Guanshiyin or Guanyin Pusa is the Chinese interpretation of the bodhisattva Avalokiteśvara (the goddess of comfort and mercy). In addition, she is seen in Taoism as an immortal. The scripture dedicated to her is Dabeizhou. Guanyin is the goddess of compassion and the sea. She is one of the three saints of the western paradise, along with Mahasthamaprapta and Amitabha Buddha; they are worshiped to save departed loved ones from hell and grant them entrance to the western paradise. Guanyin Chinese name Traditional Chinese 觀音 Simplified Chinese 观音 Transcriptions Full Chinese name Traditional Chinese 觀世音 Simplified Chinese 观世音 Literal meaning "[The One Who] Perceives the Sounds of the World" Transcriptions Second alternative Chinese name Traditional Chinese 觀自在 Simplified Chinese 观自在 Literal meaning "Lord who Gazes down on the World" Transcriptions Burmese name Burmese ကွမ်ယင် IPA [kwàɴ jɪ̀ɴ] Tibetan name Tibetan སྤྱན་རས་གཟིགས Vietnamese name Vietnamese alphabet Quan Âm (Quán Âm) Quán Thế Âm (Quan Thế Âm) Quán Tự Tại Chữ Hán 觀音 觀世音 觀自在 Thai name Thai กวนอิม, พระอวโลกิเตศวรโพธิสัตว์ RTGS Kuan Im, Phra Avalokitesuan Korean name Hangul 관음, 관세음, 관자재 Hanja 觀音, 觀世音, 觀自在 Transcriptions Mongolian name Mongolian script ᠨᠢᠳᠦ ᠪᠡᠷ ᠦᠵᠡᠭᠴᠢ Japanese name Kanji 観音, 観世音, 観自在 Hiragana かんのん, かんぜおん, かんじざい Transcriptions Indonesian name Indonesian Kwan Im, Kwan She Im, Awalokiteswara Filipino name Tagalog Guanyin (ᜄᜓᜀᜈᜌᜒᜈ) Sanskrit name Sanskrit अवलोकितेश्वर (Avalokiteśvara) Khmer name Khmer អវលោកិតេស្វរៈ (Avalokitesvarak), អវលោកេស្វរៈ (Avalokesvarak), លោកេស្វរៈ (Lokesvarak) Hmong name Hmong Kabyeeb, Niam-Txiv Kabyeeb, Dabpog, Niam-Txiv Dabpog Guanyin (traditional Chinese: 觀音; simplified Chinese: 观音; pinyin: Guānyīn) is a Bodhisattva associated with compassion. She is the East Asian representation of Avalokiteśvara (Sanskrit: अवलोकितेश्वर) and has been adopted by other Eastern religions, including Chinese folk religion.[note 1] She was first given the appellation "Goddess of Mercy" or "Mercy Goddess" by Jesuit missionaries in China.[1] Guanyin is short for Guanshiyin, which means "[The One Who] Perceives the Sounds of the World."[2] On the 19th day of the sixth lunar month, Guanyin's attainment of Buddhahood is celebrated.[3] Some Buddhists believe that when one of their adherents departs from this world, they are placed by Guanyin in the heart of a lotus, and then sent to the western pure land of Sukhāvatī.[4] Guanyin is often referred to as the "most widely beloved Buddhist Divinity"[5] with miraculous powers to assist all those who pray to her, as is mentioned in the Pumen chapter of Lotus Sutra and Kāraṇḍavyūha Sūtra. Several large temples in East Asia are dedicated to Guanyin, including Shaolin Monastery, Longxing Temple, Puning Temple, Nanhai Guanyin Temple, Dharma Drum Mountain, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple, Shitennō-ji, Sensō-ji, Kiyomizu-dera, Sanjūsangen-dō, and many others. Guanyin's abode and bodhimaṇḍa in India is recorded as being on Mount Potalaka. With the localization of the belief in Guanyin, each area adopted their own Potalaka. In Chinese Buddhism, Mount Putuo is considered the bodhimaṇḍa of Guanyin. Naksansa is considered to be the Potalaka of Guanyin in Korea. Japan's Potalaka is located at Fudarakusan-ji. Tibet's Potalaka is the Potala Palace. Vietnam's Potalaka is the Hương Temple. There are several pilgrimage centers for Guanyin in East Asia. Putuoshan is the main pilgrimage site in China. There is a 33 temple Guanyin pilgrimage in Korea which includes Naksansa. In Japan, there are several pilgrimages associated with Guanyin. The oldest one of them is the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage, a pilgrimage through 33 temples with Guanyin shrines. Guanyin is beloved by most Buddhist traditions in a nondenominational way and found in most Tibetan temples under the name Chenrézik (Wylie: Spyan ras gzigs). Guanyin is also beloved and worshipped in the temples in Nepal. The Hiranya Varna Mahavihar located in Patan is one example. Guanyin is also found in some influential Theravada temples such as Gangaramaya Temple, Kelaniya and Natha Devale nearby Temple of the Tooth...

A charming and mischievous pair of Japanese carved, gilt and painted komainu, often mistaken for foo dogs or foo lions, Showa Period, 1920's, Japan. The two komainu, or guardian lions, are portrayed seated upon their haunches, heads slightly turned. The two beasts are well carved, with wonderful musculature, flowing manes, and bushy tails. Their faces a mix of ferocious and comical. The eyes of reverse painted glass with gilt highlights. One is a true komainu, (lion-dog), with a horn on its head, and its mouth closed. The other is a shishi, (lion), with its mouth open, and no horn. The komainu sports a mane and tail pigmented blue with gilt highlights. The shishi sports a mane and tail pigmented green with gilt highlights. Both figures richly gilt in gold lacquer. Komainu are protective beings, similar to foo lions or foo dogs...

A gold-brown, antique Asian oversized wall mount decorative Buddha head in a very large scale. Handcrafted in tropical wood and gilded, in good condition. Wear consistent with age an...

Antique hand carved primitive statue from Sumatra. Set on a modern black steel stand. Rare. This statue was sourced in the spirit of wabi-sabi, a J...

Japan, a beautiful, unusual and possibly unique antique hand cast bronze "Kappa" (child protector) sculptor complete with a separately formed bronze pair of 3.5 inch long cucumbers- a kappa's favorite snack food. Signed. Signed An incised artist signature “Buraku” on base. "Bunraku" is associated with Japanese puppet play and performance, Kappa Bring Good Fortune Japanese Kappa...

Presenting a lovely 20C Chinese soapstone polished ring dish. Made in China in the early 20th century circa 1930. This is a polished mottled gray soa...

A late Qing Dynasty period giltwood architectural panel on red ground, with floral motifs, set in new frame. Delve into the rich tapestry of the late Qing Dynasty period with this gi...

Rare pair Art Deco decorator works of art Japan, a lovely near pair (2) tall antique lavender flambe over light sky blue hand glazed vases from the Awaji kiln. They were hand crafted by the master artisans of the Japanese southern Awaji Kiln, during the Taisho period (1910-1926). The impressive pottery vases crafted in a classic art deco form with a lavender flambe over light sky blue glazed finish. They are unsigned as many normally were from that period and are in original condition. Dimensions: Tallest 12.5 inches tall and 9 inches diameter with a 5 inch diameter base; Smaller is 11.5 inches tall Provenance: private New England collection. Undoubtedly influenced by the modernist movement and more likely by the visit to the Awaji kilns by the noted English designer Christopher Dresser of Linthorpe Art...

Presenting a beautiful early 20th century Gilt Metal Thai Khon Dancer. Made in Thailand (South East Asia) circa 1920. It features a gilt meta...

This is Ho-te-i, an old Japanese god. hotei is one of the seven gods of good fortune in Japan. This god is plump and has a large pouch. He also carri...

8-163 small hand carved figure of a peasant with a removable straw hat. circa 1920-30's.

Japanese hand carved wood life size turtles small 12x19x10" Large 12x22x12".

A fine and beautiful carved peking glass snuff bottle, a deep carving interior with block glass inlay objects.  

Presenting a lovely set of 3 small Chinese carved soapstone sculptures. Made in China in the early 20th Century circa 1930. This set comprises of: 1. A Medium/Tall mottled b...

A well carved Chinese soapstone brush pot of jar shape believed to date from the latter Qing dynasty and probably around 1900. The brush washer is carved from a jade colored soapston...

A seated larger then life Guan Yin Seated buddha statue. Guanyin is Chinese goddess associated with Compassion and Mercy. Handcarved Wood with ...

Japan, a fine and rare pair (2) of antique bronze shrine fox Inari kitsune, Taisho (1912-1926) era, early 20th century. Iconic Kitsune fox are closely associated with the Inari shri...

Japan, an exceptionally tall 29" antique monumental monochrome amber yellow crackle glazed dragon vase with a dramatic and impressive "curling dragon" wrapped around its stem. It was crafted by the master artisans of the Japanese southern Awaji Kiln, from the late Meiji to Taisho period (1910-1920). The impressive porcelain vase crafted in a tubular modernist form with an original amber yellow glazed finish and with an applied curling dragon sculpture. It is unsigned as many normally were from that period and is in original condition with normal kiln origination surface creation imperfections. Dimensions: 29 inches tall and 9 inches diameter top and with an 8 inch diameter base Provenance: private New England collection. Undoubtedly influenced by the modernist movement and more likely by the visit to the Awaji kilns by the noted English designer Christopher Dresser of Linthorpe Art Pottery...

Hand-carved from Iron Wood this is a wonderful example of a Backstrap Loom, an essential component of Ikat textile weaving. The Curved section would fit around the weavers back not o...

Hand-carved from Wood this is a wonderful example of a Backstrap Loom, an essential component of Ikat textile weaving. The present Backsrap Loom comes from the Island of Madura, off the northeastern coast of Java. The Curved section would fit around the weavers back not only providing support while they would we weave elaborate Ikat textiles but also allowing her to control the tension of the warp during weaving. In many cases husbands would craft unique carved and designed Backstrap looms for their wives and these would often be passed down through generations. The present Backstrap Loom features floral engravings.

A wonderful work complete with a unique wood-carved and hand-painted face and original textile garment. From a group of 7 Chinese opera puppets, we acquired from a collector. Each puppet shows clear signs of previous stage use. Likely from the early 1900s. Would make for a great addition to any Chinese artifacts...

A wonderful work complete with a unique wood-carved and hand-painted face, long grey beard, and original textile garment. From a group of 7 Chinese opera puppets...

Japanese dolls called Kokeshi of the early 20th century. Provenance from the northern Japan. Set of 2. Measures: 24.5 x 7 cm 25 x 6.5 cm Handmade by Japanese artisants...

Instant display and collection, one of a kind #2 From western China and collected some 20 years ago, comes this group of three (3) large hand carved red sandstone Lohans or Monks da...

Japanese hand carved green stone rabbit Rabbit weighs 33 lbs.

Two kneeling male figures, perhaps priests or disciples of the Buddha in carved white marble, believed to be Temple Sculpture. One with hands clasped in prayer, the other with arms d...

First we have seen, unique An innovative designed nautical Lantern that emits brilliant night light. Outstanding Japanese design merges with fine art in this beautiful large-scale ...

Instant display and collection, one of a kind. From western China and collected some 20 years ago, comes this group of three (3) large hand carved red sandstone Lohans or Monks da...

This vintage Italian detailed head is made of hand crafted terracotta clay, in good condition. Wear consistent with age and use. circa 1918, Italy. Bronzo di Riace was one of the ...

Presenting a lovely 20C Chinese soapstone polished bowl. Made in China in the early 20th century circa 1930. This is a medium sized jade green an...

Hand painted wooden horse, most likely mango wood, purchased in Jaipur, India in 2019.

This buddha is a hand-carved from wood and originates from Burma, modern day Myanmar. It once featured an elaborate gilded finish (covered in gold leaf), however much of this has wor...

This buddha is a hand-carved from wood and originates from Burma, modern day Myanmar. It once featured an elaborate lacquer finish, however much of this has worn away over the decade...

Vintage Buddhist protector deity statue bronze heavy, ornate, symbolic, fertility symbol door handle from old temple Heavy bronze door handle in the ...

A wonderful work complete with a unique wood-carved and hand painted face and original textile garment. From a group of 7 Chinese opera puppets...

A wonderful work complete with a unique wood-carved and hand-painted face and original textile garment. From a group of 7 Chinese opera puppets...

An antique kneeling monk on lotus leaf sitting in a praying position. From a Burmese Buddhist Temple. This well carved teak monk features attractive remn...

Vintage bronze sculpture / statue featuring a man riding a horse. Please confirm item location (NY or NJ).

Hand painted wooden horse, most likely mango wood, purchased in Jaipur, India in 2019.

This tribal panel originates from the Batak tribe of Sumatra. The Batak are known for the elaborate decoration of their buildings and these decorative panel additions would have been...

This tribal panel originates from the Batak tribe of Sumatra. The Batak are known for the elaborate decoration of their buildings and these decorative panel additions would have been...

This tribal panel originates from the Batak tribe of Sumatra. The Batak are known for the elaborate decoration of their buildings and these decorative panel additions would have been...

An exceptional Chinese carved coral figural group of a Guanyin, Kwan Yin with a Phoenix. Very finely carved. In a custom made glass...

Tea drinking has been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries, resulting in a wide range of social customs and material traditions. In addition to tea leaves, water, and he...

Bianchini-Ferier Circa 1880- 1900 textile design wood and metal fabric block, sold exclusively by lord and Taylor department store 1930's. Hand carved and created in Lyons France.

A Batak Tribe “Singa” from the Indonesian island of Sumatra. This mythical lion figure was used as a protective architectural element on the corner of a traditional Batak house. It f...

A fine and beautiful carved red gemstone snuff bottle, a deep carving interior with a dark stone cap.  

Three early 20th century red horn carvings of Buddha and Bodhisattvas. These three carvings all from approx. circa 1915 represent the bodhisattvas and or the ...

Tea drinking has been an integral part of Chinese culture for centuries, resulting in a wide range of social customs and material traditions. In addition to tea leaves, water, and heat, the art of drinking tea (chayi) calls for a variety of teaware and utensils - both practical and decorative. This charming teapot dates to the late Qing dynasty and is hand-carved from a hollow length of bamboo in the shape of a ripe pomegranate. The handle is carved to resemble a thin branch, which forks to either side of the teapot bearing long, slender leaves. The teapot has a squat, rounded form and a dark brown finish, reminiscent of Yixing red clay teapots...

Early 20th century porcelain Maneki Neko, Japan This porcelain Maneki Neko, the good fortune beckoning cat, is a molded seated form with the right raised ...

An integral part of traditional Chinese home life, ancestor worship before a domestic altar often featured painted ancestral portraits or tabletop ancestor figure...

Cast in brass with a rich patina, this seated figure is a Lama, a spiritual master and teacher of the Dharma in Tibetan Buddhism. The figure likely de...

A stunning early 20th century sculpture of rython form terminating in a winged ram. The sculpture features intricate design of flowers on the rython and fine sculpting on the ram win...

This hand-crafted walking stick originates from the island of Java, Indonesia around the turn of the 19th Century. It features hand-carved detailing of a male figure with an extraord...