Four 17th C. Chinese Qing Seated Wood Daoist Deities

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Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art

By Artemis Fine Arts

May 1, 2025

Set Reminder 2025-05-01 10:00:00 2025-05-01 10:00:00 America/New_York Bidsquare Bidsquare : Fine Antiquities, Asian, Ethno, Fine Art https://www.bidsquare.com/auctions/artemis-gallery/fine-antiquities-asian-ethno-fine-art-19334
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• Lot Description

  East Asia, China, early Qing Dynasty, ca. 17th to 18th century CE. A rare and commanding assembly of four large, lacquered wood Taoist figures, once the focal point of a revered religious sanctuary or the cherished home shrine of a prosperous family. These imposing statues stood as silent guardians, symbolically shielding devotees from misfortune and malevolent spirits, offering solace in times of illness, guiding rituals, and providing spiritual counsel. Each figure is draped in simple yet dignified high-collared red robes, their presence further enhanced by intricately carved high hats, as they sit with solemn serenity and an air of quiet authority upon backless plinths. Reflecting a tradition prevalent during the Ming and Qing dynasties, these carvings embody the multifaceted roles of Taoists, who were often depicted as scholars, wise sages, respected officials, and devout priests. Size of largest (dark face): 15.5" L x 13" W x 33.4" H (39.4 cm x 33 cm x 84.8 cm)

  While precise identification outside their original context can be challenging, the encompassing term "Daoshi," meaning "master of the Tao," aptly captures their essence as Taoist priests, esteemed monks, or spiritual masters. <br><br>A significant identifier of Taoist priests and officials in sculptural form is the Hu tablet, and here, three of the figures reverently clasp these objects to their chests with long, elegant fingers. Originally known as audience tablets, these flat, slender strips of wood served secular officials since the Han Dynasty as prompts during formal court presentations and audiences with the emperor, aiding their memory and allowing them to record imperial wishes. Embraced by Taoism, the Hu tablet evolved into a vital spiritual tool, employed by priests and practitioners in rituals to purify the surroundings and offer protection against malevolent forces. Taoist priests are often depicted holding these tablets as a symbolic means of communication with the spiritual realm and during worship of the immortals. Notably, high-ranking priests are traditionally portrayed on altars holding the tablet with both hands, as if standing before the Heavenly Court in direct audience with a deity, underscoring the tablet's profound spiritual significance.

  
  Provenance: private Los Angeles, California, USA collection, acquired from 1990 to 2005
  
  All items legal to buy/sell under U.S. Statute covering cultural patrimony Code 2600, CHAPTER 14, and are guaranteed to be as described or your money back.
  
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  #192278

  Condition

  Professionally repainted in areas and feet of some have been professionally reattached. All have some chipping, nicks, and abrasions as shown with stable fissures to wood commensurate with age. Otherwise, nice presentation with good remains of pigments and trace remains of gilding. Age-expected patina to wood.

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