A very old intricately carved bamboo root of a legendary figure carrying a twig of plum blossom, a book with a stock whose one leg rests on a basket. He carries a big straw hat behind The patina is chocolate brown colour throughout. Condition is very good with no defects and no repairs. On the base are a few age old splits as shown in photos Height 36 cm/14 inches Width 11 cm/4.5 inches Weight 800 gm This item was bought in Hong Kong in the mid 1980s
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Acquired From:
Gallery/Dealer
Thank you for submitting your item for appraisal. This appears to be a chinese late Qing or early republican era 1880-1920s bamboo root carving depicting Shou Lao. The god of longevity is recognizable by his gnarled staff and the crane on his side which is also a representation of long life. The sculptor of this statue uses a more modern realistic approach and depicts Shou Lao without the enlarged peach shaped head. The estimate is based on similar items sold at auction. A serious collector might be willing to pay more than the high estimate.
