This impressive temple statue, 81 cm tall, depicts Guanyin, the Bodhisattva of Compassion, standing on a powerful mythological dragon above raging waves. This monumental piece is a prime example of the decorative richness of the Late Qing Dynasty (c. 1880–1910) and was originally intended as a central offering piece in a temple or a significant private altar.
Forensic Audit & Material Analysis
At 1stbuddha.nl, this object has been subjected to an extensive technical inspection to ensure authenticity:
Traditional Woodcarving: The sculpture is hand-carved from a solid block of dense hardwood (7.6 kg). The chisel marks in the deep sections, such as the dragon's mouth, bear witness to artisanal mastery.
Layered Polychromy: The surface displays a complex stratigraphy of black lacquer, red cinnabar underlayers, and blue mineral pigments (azureite), finished with remnants of authentic leaf gilding.
Natural Craquelé: The lacquer layer exhibits an organic aging pattern that can only develop through decades of exposure to a temple environment.
UV Validation: Examination with 365nm UV light confirms the absence of modern restorations or synthetic additions.
Specifications
Period: Late Qing Dynasty (ca. 1900)
Material: Polychrome wood with lacquer gilding
Dimensions: Height 81 cm | Width 47 cm
Weight: 7.6 kg
Condition: Excellent historical condition with fair age-related wear
