Monumental Chinese reclining Tongzi - a decorative 1920s piece

This monumental antique Chinese wooden Tongzi (Lucky Child) statue was crafted around 1890-1925 from a single solid block of hardwood and largely retains its original polychromy. Its relaxed reclining posture, friendly facial expression, and exceptional dimensions make this an impressive decorative object with a warm, inviting presence. Thanks to its monumental size and authentic age, this statue is a special collector's item for lovers of Chinese art, Asian interiors, and characterful antique sculptures.

Price: €2,450

The Philosophical & Historical Significance

The depicted figure is generally referred to as a Tongzi (童子), or a Chinese lucky child. Within traditional Chinese culture, such figures symbolize prosperity, harmony, fertility, and the continuation of the family line. They were used in affluent homes, reception rooms, and sometimes within religious or ceremonial settings as bringers of good fortune and positive energy.

• Luck & prosperity: The smiling posture refers to a carefree and prosperous life.
• Monumental execution: Due to its exceptional size, this is not a standard decorative statue but a sculpture that was likely part of a rich Chinese interior.
• Authentic age: The natural drying cracks, old wear, and original polychromy give the statue a character that only prolonged natural aging can create.
• Possible original function: Given its elongated shape and low posture, it is plausible that the statue originally served as a decorative element on a traditional Chinese platform or a representative reception area.

Specifications

• Period: Late Qing – Early Republic (c. 1890-1925)
• Origin: China (likely Southern China)
• Depiction: Tongzi (Chinese lucky child)
• Material: Solid hardwood
• Finish: Original polychromy
• Construction: Carved from a single solid block of wood
• Height: 49.5 cm
• Length: 72.5 cm
• Width: 26 cm
• Weight: 26.2 kg
• Condition: Good antique condition with authentic signs of use, natural drying cracks, old polychromy, and normal age-related wear consistent with its age.

Each object is examined before it is offered: material, casting or carving technique, surface, and signs of age are compared with documented references. You will receive a certificate of authenticity and an official invoice detailing the period, material, and available provenance.

How we verify authenticity

Fully insured worldwide shipping in museum-quality packaging. Returns are sent to our Dutch address and you have a 14-day cooling-off period.

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Pay securely at checkout with credit card, Klarna, Apple Pay, or Google Pay. The certificate of authenticity and the invoice are included in the price.