Statuette de Luohan en corail sculpté Chine, Dynastie Qing, XVIIIE siècle

l'immortel assis un genou relevé, un chapelet bouddhiste à la main, sur une base en bois

La vieille Fontaine Antiquités S.A., Lausanne, 25 novembre 1982.

The figure and the base are in good condition. One hole in the hairs has been filled in with coral, possibly original to the piece, another on this left shoulder has been also refilled with a small coral section. Some natural pittings in the coral, mainly on the lower part of the figure as visible on the catalogue illustration. The actual colour is consistent with the catalogue illustration.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

For further coral figures, see a larger example carved as a lady standing while holding a basket of flowers, from the Whitaker Family Collection, sold at Christie's London, 5-6^th July 1983, lot 467; and another sold in our Los Angeles rooms, 4^th June 1981, lot 1235.

In China red coral is associated with auspiciousness and longevity because of its colour and resemblance to deer antlers.