Sculptures and Carvings

One of a kind. From western China and collected some 20 years ago, comes this large hand carved red sandstone Lohan or Monk sculpture dating to circa...

A large and impressive vintage gilt bronze figure of the tantric Buddha Vajrasattva, the Diamond Thunderbolt, mid 20th century, Nepal. Crafted of cast and richly gilt bronze, Vajrasattva sits in vajrasana, or full lotus position, his torso slightly bent at the waist. He holds an upright vajra scepter in one hand, raised at heart level. His other hand, resting on his hip, would originally have held a a ghanta, or bell, which is now missing. He is festooned in jewelry, including a five pointed crown, earrings, necklaces and armlets, all studded with coral and turquoise beads. His long hair falling in elegant tresses around his shoulders, the rest tied up in a high chignon topped by a vajra. Vajrasattva wears a dhoti covering his lower half. The dhoti intricately cast and carved with a scrolling vegetal design, and featuring images from the Ashtamangala, or Eight Auspicious Emblems, including the conch, endless knot, and double fish. Scarves billow out around his arms. The tantric Buddha sits upon a tall double lotus throne, the back with more intricately cast decorations of dragons and lotus blossoms against dense vegetal scrolls. The base sealed with a dented copper plate inscribed with a visvajra, or double vajra...

A simple exterior of black lacquer belies the splendor within this late 19th-century Japanese traveling shrine (zushi). The hinged doors open to reveal a lustrous gold interior and a...

Natural teak wood root sphere. The outer section is polished and the inner root left smooth in contrast. We have a collection available--all vary slightly in diameter. The price refl...

Just discovered from an old Kyoto area garden. Call or message us for details or to reserve. Please view our video. For the finest garden- an exceptional and spiritual representation of the Buddha expressed in this unique and substantial 10 feet five roof pagoda with four buddha images carved on base. Japan, a monumental antique stone pagoda...

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...

An old early 20th century granite stone "Crowned" Buddha - Shyaka Nyorai Sakyamuni- sculpture with staff and "Hoju" the wish granting jewel in her left hand, the whole perched upon...

Heita (平太) Noh Mask attributed to Takada Fuki (高田 冨季, 1935–2008) Mask: Heita (平太) SKU: TBA18 Size: W: 16 cm, H: 21 cm The Heita mask is used to portray warriors, military commander...

A truly beautiful, wonderfully crafted, alluring female mask made for the Japanese Noh theatre. This mask is handcrafted and carved from natural wood and lacquer. Omi-Onna's (...

Thai Rattanakosin-Era Carved and Gilded Throne Side Panels Ornately carved panels with gilding from Thailand. The central portion of these panels depict...

This is a guaranteed authentic ancient Chinese jade bi cache of ninety six (96) discs from the Qijia culture, Northwestern China, circa 3000-2000 BCE. Including Our Certificate of A...

Antique Chinese Carved Pebble Hetian White Jade with Landscaping Scenery. The "Density is 2.89 g/cm³. -Dimensions and Density- Width: 1 3/4" Depth: 7/8" Height: 3 1/4" Weight: ...

Beautiful and rare vintage figure. Stylistically primitive and raw, this beautiful bronze statue represents an old protective ancestor or soul. The skeletal figure and large head e...

Great Pair (2) Of Large Round Stone Bowls/Planters From our recent Japanese Acquisition Travels- comes this unusual pair of large round garden stone vessels with inset carved handl...

This is a carved stone slab, probably made in China. What is represented is probably a dragon. A dragon with a brave face is carved with two raised eyebrows. It is thought that it wa...

An exceptionally hand-carved antique Chinese soapstone spill vase - spill holder (see below), profusely decorated and intricately detailed naturalistic sc...

The Bi was a traditional ceremonial scepter used by the Chinese Emperors to connect with the Heavenly Gods. A symbol of unity and holistic harmony, it was used in ancient celestial c...

An extremely finely carved antique Chinese Qing dynasty, Celadon green triple vase/brush washer with an Imperial Dragon from behind attacking a bird in fro...

Pair of 20th Century or earlier polychrome hand carved Guanyin Bodhisattva heads with glass eyes.

These are a very good PAIR of antique Chinese foo or lion dog sculptures, sometimes called temple lions, made of a brass-bronze metal alloy, with excellent detail, dating to the early 19th century, Qing period or possibly earlier back to the 18th century. They are a male and female pair, the male with the slightly larger head. These pieces are very well cast with good detail and wear, showing a very good depth of colour. Both dogs have a small hole on the top of the head for incense to be placed. Each piece weighs about 700gm unpacked Overall a lovely pair of antique Chinese Foo Dogs...

Used in Thailand as temple roof finials or in pairs at entrances to guard against evil spirits and natural disasters, the powerful, mystical naga ar...

China antique monumental Wooden Pagoda, total height is 70 inches, hand carved and hand painted wood, seven hexagonal sections plus finial, late Qin...

A visually arresting tall vertical scholar stone of Lingbi type balanced on a fitted wood base. The rock formation features an elegant slender form of highly sculptural surface with ...

Antonine de Saint Pierre, signed and numbered. Sign titled “Jouve” in oxidized metal. Wooden frame. Work of a contemporary French artist. Dimensions: H 194,5 x W 114 x D 7 cm Ref...

This large antique Burmese Buddha altar stands at an impressive height of 187 cm, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Burma (Myanmar). Crafted in the...

Design inspired on an artwork by Salvador Dali´: Interpretation project for a stable-library, 1942 Stuffed lamb, elaborated with a technique by a taxidermist. Drawer and table top i...

A rustic Thai 19th century ox cart wooden wheel mounted on a custom made black wooden stand. Born in Thailand during the 19th century, this handmade wheel is pierced in its center with a circular hole reserved for the axle tree. The wheel showcases a nicely weathered patina witnessing its long use since the 19th century. This item is mounted on a custom made black painted stepped base. With its rustic appearance and large proportions, this 19th century Thai mounted wooden ox cart wheel...

Vintage Chinese Gemstone Bonsai Tree Sculpture, Cloisonné Planter Offered for sale is a Vintage Chinese Jade and other semi-precious stones Bonsai tre...

Old Siamese hand-carved teak panel of a temple goddess and her admirer or consort, with finely detailed background.

An incredible Edo Period Japanese gilt and lacquered carved wood shrine depicting a Bodhisattva with piercing glass eyes, a contemplative expression, and h...

Japanese Large Blue Patinated Bronze Temple Bell With A Resonating Sound For your meditation , or special garden display comes this handsome 20 inch tall bronze bell. Its original ...

Antique 3 Architectural Panels of Chinese carved gilt statue group with relief carved images from 19th century, framed. measured 19 in x 8.75 in ...

Vintage Pair of Chinese Guardian Lions, Foo Dogs or Shishi are symbolic, protective figures that have been a prominent part of Chinese art and culture for centuries. These mythical c...

This “Wayang Golek” is a visibly old shadow puppet carved using soft wood and cloth. It features an articulated head and arms connected to rods, the dress...

A pair of antique Burmese wooden finial (Chofa) with figures, used for decoration on top of temple's roof. Age: Burma, Early 20th Century Size excluding stand: Height 123.3 - 127 C...

Zō-onna (増女) This mask depicts a woman with a noble and calm expression. In Noh theater, it is used for roles of young women. The mask conveys elegance and softness, making it suita...

A Caitao type Chinese scholar stone presented on a carved confirming wood stand circa 1990s. Caitao, which means colored pottery in Chinese, was a newly discovered scholar stone type...

1157 Oversized hand carved statue of Okimono of Jurojin (godof langevity) a symbol of long life carved from a solid block of boxwood.

wooden bases shown in pictures are included with these items; each phoenix is carved from a single piece of jade; jade with apple green tones; approximate measurements of each (overa...

Hand-carved wooden sculpture representing a traditional guardian or deity figure, often referred to as the "Lady of Popa," originating from Vietnam or Southeast Asia. This striking p...

A large and dramatic Chinese Gongshi (known as meditation stone or spirit stone) from Taihu (Lake Tai) balanced on display stand. This scholar rock features a relatively red and poro...

A stunning Taihu scholar stone in an unusual horizonal balanced form perched on a custom wood stand. The stone, in a nearly pure greyish white color, display a weathered smooth surfa...

Japan antique handmade, hand carved temple low writing table finished in red and black lacquer - signed. A beautiful simple master work from an old private Japanese collection. Cr...

A pair of magnificent stone foo dogs, meticulously hand-carved from solid stone. Their muscular forms, wide eyes, and open mouths while adorable convey ...

An attractive example of a burl wood natural organic wood flower or display table crafted from golden camphor wood root and burl. This stunning single roo...

Large Balinese Barong carved and hand-painted wood dance mask of an ornate, colorful mythological creature. Skilfully hand carved, with large bulging eyes, large teeth, and two snake...

This is an intricate carving into a large jade boulder in many layers, with figures and mountain scenes depicting the traditional Chinese living style alo...

A pair of wood fragments carved in high relief with overlapping leaves of magnolia and mimosa, fronting blossoms of magnolia and reeded fractions of columns. Hand carved, solid wood,...

An Enameled Molded Porcelain Snuff Bottle. Imperial, Jingdezhen kilns, Qianlong four-character mark in iron red.  

A lifesize terracotta head in Gandhara style. Based on the style, it is likely from Kushan period Northern India, circa 4th-6th century. The expres...

A vintage bronze statuette from the mid-20th century depicting Quan Yin. Created during the midcentury period, this bronze statuette features the Quan Yin, the Goddess of Compassion,...

Pair large antique 19th century Chinese Lacquer and carved wood figures.

Chinese antique Pakistan jade teapot with wood stand. An unusual waved carving on the entire teapot, the lid with an animal finial on the top.

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, from ...

A wonderful vintage to near antique Chinese nephrite jade carving of Damo (Bodhidharma), with an associated carved hardwood stand, early to mid 20th century, possibly Republic Period...

This Chinese extraordinary natural marble stone painting of a mountain range in green and white colors is called a dream stone Shih-hua. It is a huge monumental masterwork of nature. Totally natural. Dimensions: Hardwood frame: 62 inches tall and 88.5 inches length Site: 54 inches tall and 80.5 inches length This marble stone painting is approximately 3/8 inch thick and is cut from a large slab of rough material revealing a unique, incredible pattern in soft green and white colors. This unique work of art was from historic Dali marble found in the Cangshan mountains of western China. These mysterious mountains, unique in the world, are known for yielding incredible and fantastic natural landscaped works of art created over tens of millions of years from mineral inclusions that affected the process of ancient organic material which transformed into limestone and finally resulted in marble- a metamorphic hard stone. This art form is centuries of years old since the Ming dynasty. Dream stones became favored art in the west particularly since the 19th century when French collectors named them Pierres de reve. History of Green Flower dream stone paintings...

Gruppo in porcellana decorata raffigurante Meissen - Private Collection Domenico Rugiano

A Chinese Bronze Seated Guanyin, 19th Century Guanyin is the Buddhist bodhisattva associated with compassion. In the East Asian world, Guanyin is the equivalent term for Avalokitesv...

Simple Memorial Buddha A single stone seated Buddha in meditation and who complacently sits with Kanj engraved to each side of this sculpture Good garden candidate .In Japan, Kṣi...

An exquisite antique Chinese Hand Carved Peking Glass Snuff Bottle. Hand crafted in beautiful imperial yellow colored glass. The glass is slightly translucent almost looking like mil...