Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
CHINOISERIE STYLE
Emerging in the 17th century, chinoiserie appropriated the aesthetics and imagery of popular East Asian design for European-made versions. Reflecting the exoticization of China, Japan and other countries in this era, the word directly translates from French to “Chinese-esque,” which reveals its shortcomings as a style of furniture and decor that often stereotypically and reductively mimics Asian culture rather than showcasing and paying tribute to its artistic traditions.
The enthusiastically decorative chinoiserie style was propelled by influential tastemakers including French King Louis XIV, whose Trianon de Porcelaine in 1670 was inspired by Chinese architecture. Expanded trade between the East and West led to a demand for porcelain, lacquer objects, silk and other goods, which further informed the fanciful furniture being crafted in Europe.
Artisans working in the chinoiserie style used materials and elements like pagoda shapes, bamboo, lacquer surfaces, bird and flower motifs and other interpretations of Asian design on pieces that were frequently set against vibrant wallcoverings. This whimsical approach yielded chinoiserie furniture that boasted dramatic flourishes drawing on the natural world and reflected the dominance of Rococo during the 18th century.
As chinoiserie was shaped by approximations of Asian design by European creators, it had regional variations, such as Chinese Chippendale in England where cabinets, chairs and tea tables had wooden fretwork designs and “japanned” surfaces intended to resemble lacquer work that was created in East Asia. In North America, furniture makers in Boston and New York integrated chinoiserie-painted scenes into Queen Anne furniture.
Antique chinoiserie furniture has continued to be fashionable, from its popularity with decorators of the Hollywood Regency era — James Mont, Tommi Parzinger, William Haines and Samuel Marx favored the style — to contemporary interior designers, although it brings with it a complex history.
Find a collection of chinoiserie bedroom furniture, cabinets, decorative objects and more on 1stDibs.
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Style: Chinoiserie
Asian Hand Carved Painted Wooden Lucky Baby Buddha on Melon
Located in Clifton Springs, NY
Vintage hand carved and hand-painted baby Buddha sculpture depicts Buddha as a boy, kneeling and hugging a large melon, ready to fall asleep. The...
Category
Mid-20th Century Asian Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood, Padouk
20th Jade Sculpture with Nine Dragon Boat **** 16 Foots Large***
Located in Miami, FL
Chinese Scrib, but handcrafted in Thailand. Sixteen feet long. Rosewood base. The sculptors of this enormous boat made of jade. You will admire the details of this vessel. The dragon is the ultimate symbol of auspiciousness. It is the most important symbol in both Feng Shui and in Chinese folklore. It's most powerful when displayed in the east sector of your home, office or location of the piece. This dragon jade boat...
Category
Early 20th Century Thai Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Qing Dynasty Exquisite Chinese Wooden Panel With Raised Figures Gold Leaf (n.2)
Located in Prato, Tuscany
We kindly invite you to read the entire description carefully, as we aim to provide detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items.
This extrao...
Category
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Large Spectacular Chinese Lingbi Scholar Stone on Stand
Located in Atlanta, GA
One of the most visually arresting Chinese scholar stones (also known as Gong Shi, meditation stone and spirit rock) we have ever had on offer. A massive block of naturally formed wo...
Category
19th Century Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Stone
Qing Dynasty Exquisite Chinese Wooden Panel With Raised Figures And Gold Leaf
Located in Prato, Tuscany
We kindly invite you to read the entire description carefully, as we aim to provide detailed technical and historical information to ensure the authenticity of our items.
This extrao...
Category
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Chinese Shaka Triad Sculpture Foo Dogs Elephant Dragon Statue 59"
Located in Dayton, OH
Monumental carved marble Buddhist Shakyamuni Triad sculpture. The Shaka Triad was one of the earliest significant examples of a Buddhist sculpture in Japan. It was crafted from bron...
Category
20th Century Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Stone
Two Meissen Porcelain Chinese Nodding Pagode Figures
Located in London, GB
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...
Category
19th Century German Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Porcelain
Budai Buddha in dark jade
Located in Milano, IT
This exquisite dark jade Budai, also known as the Laughing Buddha, is a cherished symbol of happiness, prosperity, and abundance in Chinese Buddhist iconography. The figure of Budai, often depicted with a joyful smile and a round, protruding belly, is said to represent contentment, generosity, and the joy of life. Historically, Budai is believed to have been based on an eccentric Chinese Zen monk who lived during the 10th century. Over time, his image evolved to become a symbol of prosperity and well-being, beloved in both religious and cultural contexts.
Skillfully carved from dark jade, a stone highly valued in Chinese culture for its association with purity, wisdom, and protection, this sculpture brings both spiritual and artistic significance. Jade has held a special place in Chinese history for millennia, considered more precious than gold and revered for its ability to ward off evil and bring balance. The rich green hues of the dark jade in this Budai sculpture enhance the overall sense of calm and serenity that the figure embodies.
The craftsmanship in this piece is evident in the intricate carving of Budai's flowing robes and expressive features. His smiling face radiates warmth and positivity, while his posture-relaxed and grounded-symbolizes inner peace and harmony. This dark jade Budai is more than just a decorative item; it is a reminder of the importance of joy, kindness, and generosity in everyday life.
Perfect for both spiritual and decorative purposes, this Budai statue...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Pair of Vintage Blanc de Chine Figures of Guanyin Riding an Elephant and Lion
Located in Austin, TX
A lovely pair of Chinese Blanc de Chine figures of Guanyin (Avalokiteshvara) seated upon animals, Republic Period, circa 1930s.
Guanyin, the Bo...
Category
1930s Chinese Vintage Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Porcelain
Buddha in Imperial Jade
Located in Milano, IT
This skillfully carved Buddha in imperial jade represents one of the most iconic figures in Buddhist tradition. Imperial jade, known for its particular pale green and translucent hue...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Collection of Japanese and Chinese Masks
Located in Atlanta, GA
Collection of eight Japanese and Chinese masks, circa 1950s or earlier. These were recently purchased from the Manhattan estate of a Japanese man who travel...
Category
1950s Japanese Vintage Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Metal
Budai Buddha in orange jade
Located in Milano, IT
This fascinating sculpture of Budai, crafted from precious orange jade, exudes a sense of serenity and joy. With his welcoming smile and relaxed posture, the "Happy Buddha" is a symb...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
White jade Buddha figurines
Located in Milano, IT
This jade sculpture exudes an aura of serenity and abundance that captivates and enchants. It represents the Buddha of happiness, with a radiant and smiling face that immediately con...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Pair of Monumental Oversized Bone Pedestals With Intricate Detail Design
Located in Locust Valley, NY
A pair of monumental oversized wood and bone inlay pedestals with intricate detailed design and etching to tell an ancient Chinese narrative with C...
Category
Early 20th Century Unknown Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Bone, Wood
Group of Asian Hand Carved Gilt Wood Plaques
Located in Atlanta, GA
Group of five hand carved gilt wood Asian plaques, probably framed in the 1950s, the carvings may be much earlier. Beautifully framed in gilt frames with ...
Category
1950s Chinese Vintage Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Brass
Sculpture of Buddha surrounded by children in jade root
Located in Milano, IT
This jade root sculpture portrays a Happy Buddha surrounded by a multitude of joyful children. Each detail is meticulously carved, highlighting serene and cheerful expressions that s...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Indochinese Tray Carved with Dragons, circa 1900
Located in VÉZELAY, FR
Superb Indochinese table / serving tray in carved wood.
Very elaborate sculpture with a mythological theme (dragons).
Good manufacturing quality.
Asia, French Indochina (Vietnam), ...
Category
Early 1900s Vietnamese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Small Buddha Statue in white jade
Located in Milano, IT
This polished white jade sculpture depicts the Buddha Budai, also known as the Laughing Buddha, in a posture radiating joy and serenity. The glossy finish of the white jade bestows a...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Vintage Single Solid Bronze Tibetan Foo Dog/Lion Sculpture
Located in Fort Washington, MD
Amazing vintage solid bronze Tibetan Foo dog/Lion has a wooden base that it’s not fixed to the sculpture
It’s a heavy and extremely detailed piece th...
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Bronze
Chinese Hand Carved Carnelian Hardstone Floral Centerpiece & Cast Bronze Base
Located in Topeka, KS
Gorgeous vintage Chinese hand carved hardstone centerpiece composed of carnelian, jade, & quartz with a cast bronze base. Beautiful condition, keeping in mind that this is vintage an...
Category
20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Carnelian, Jade, Quartz
4 Foot Tall Vintage Happy Buddha Sculpture, Hand Carved & Painted
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Very large hand carved and painted wood Happy Buddha sculpture.
Hand painted Buddha stands 45". Comes with 30in foot tall orange pedestal(as found).
C...
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Hardwood
Chinese Carved Wood Standing Figure of Guanyin in the Ming Dynasty Style
Located in Ottawa, Ontario
A Chinese carved wood standing figure of Guanyin in the Ming dynasty style, with polychrome application, the hair tied back into an elaborate high chignon, with her left hand raised,...
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Late 19th-Early 20th Century Trio of Puppets, China
Located in Point Richmond, CA
Late 19th to early 20th century Trio of puppets, China
Two puppet torsos and one puppet head from China, all mounted on custom bases. The heights are 16, 9 and 13.5 inches (40.6, 23...
Category
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Budai Buddha fine wood carving
Located in Milano, IT
This fascinating Budai, finely carved from noble wood, represents one of the most beloved and symbolic figures in the Buddhist pantheon. The sculpture depicts Budai, often known as t...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Pair of Fully & Highly Carved Chinese Deity Figural Table Lamps
Located in Port Jervis, NY
Fabulous and amazing pair of highly carved sculptural Figural hardwood deity, samurai. Must see all pics to appreciate, carved minx at the base of the larger figure. Truly works of a...
Category
1920s Chinese Vintage Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Brass
Buddha in jade root
Located in Milano, IT
This captivating sculpture depicts a Buddha with a frog resting on his shoulder, crafted from jade root. The Buddha, with his serene smile and relaxed posture, exudes a sense of peac...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
1965 Mid-Century Austin Productions Sculpture
Located in W Allenhurst, NJ
No words. This very rare example of Austin Prods. dated 1965. Such movement and definition.
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Ceramic
Carved Wood & Polychrome Temple Fragment Head of Buddha
Located in Las Vegas, NV
Exquisite hand carved head of Buddha.
We are not experts so we're guessing this pieces age. Could be much older.
Wonderful decoration piece sat on a plinth of old green sidewalk glas...
Category
19th Century Nepalese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood, Glass
Vintage Carved White Jade Panther
Located in Brooklyn, NY
Bring the excitement of the jungle into the comfort of your own home! This stunningly carved stone big cat features a beautiful white jade hue with natural streaks of green and gold...
Category
Mid-20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Stone, Jade
Budai Buddha striped blue jada
Located in Milano, IT
This beautiful Budai sculpture, crafted from blue and white jade, represents the famous "Happy Buddha" or "Fortune Buddha," a symbol of serenity, abundance, and joy. With his welcomi...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Buddha sculpture with sack
Located in Milano, IT
Statue in green and black jade root, depicting a joyful Buddha resting atop a large sack that gracefully wraps around his sides. The figure is carved with elegance and mastery: the B...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Hand Carved Teak Chinese Figure Holding a Ruy
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Chinese carved teak female figure holding a Ruyi (scepter) in her hands with a dog at her feet. The figure is in solid, very sturdy condition. The head is removable. There are some a...
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Teak
Hand Carved Teak Chinese Male Figure with Boy
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
The Chinese teak carving of a male water bearer with a boy at his feet.
Due to age there are some splits, such as the one down the backside. These do not affect the strength or usab...
Category
Early 20th Century Chinese Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Teak, Wood
19th Century Cast Bronze Figure Of Oriental Hunter
Located in Dublin 8, IE
19th Century cast bronze figure of an oriental hunter with gilt spear and hawk. The figure stands proudly on a on squared and stepped marble plinth base.
Category
19th Century Asian Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Marble, Bronze, Ormolu
Jade sculpture with buddha and child
Located in Milano, IT
This enchanting sculpture carved from jade root masterfully depicts the smiling head of a Buddha next to a child. The harmony between these two figures conveys a sense of serene joy and benevolent protection, accentuated by the choice of material, jade root, renowned for its association with wisdom and spiritual balance.
At the base of the sculpture, a series of intricately carved ancient Chinese coins symbolize prosperity and abundance, evoking traditional beliefs that these icons bring fortune and blessings to those who keep them. The coins seem to embrace the figure of the Buddha...
Category
Early 1900s Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Jade
Chinese old sculture in wood polychrome ancestor's head secret box.
Located in Rio De Janeiro, RJ
Incredible chinese old sculpture in wood polychrome ancestor's head secret box.
Category
18th Century Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Wood
Old Rare Wooden Sculpture "Sleeping Chinese Baby"
Located in Alessandria, Piemonte
Enjoyable wooden statue with a smiling sleeping Chinese baby, with the head resting on a pillow.
This was used as a head rest for elaborate hairstyles of ...
Category
Late 19th Century Chinese Antique Chinoiserie Sculptures and Carvings
Materials
Hardwood
Chinoiserie sculptures and carvings for sale on 1stDibs.
Find a broad range of unique Chinoiserie sculptures and carvings for sale on 1stDibs. Many of these items were first offered in the Late 20th Century, but contemporary artisans have continued to produce works inspired by this style. If you’re looking to add vintage sculptures and carvings created in this style to your space, the works available on 1stDibs include asian art and furniture, decorative objects, wall decorations and other home furnishings, frequently crafted with wood, ceramic and other materials. If you’re shopping for used Chinoiserie sculptures and carvings made in a specific country, there are Asia, East Asia, and China pieces for sale on 1stDibs. While there are many designers and brands associated with original sculptures and carvings, popular names associated with this style include Austin Productions, Meissen Porcelain, and Karl Springer. It’s true that these talented designers have at times inspired knockoffs, but our experienced specialists have partnered with only top vetted sellers to offer authentic pieces that come with a buyer protection guarantee. Prices for sculptures and carvings differ depending upon multiple factors, including designer, materials, construction methods, condition and provenance. On 1stDibs, the price for these items starts at $75 and tops out at $27,960 while the average work can sell for $1,400.