A SUPERB CARVED BAMBOO-ROOT FIGURE OF A YAWNING LUOHAN QING DYNASTY, 18TH CENTURY

deftly carved in the form of a luohan, possibly Pantha the Elder, yawning with his mouth wide open and raised eyebrows with forehead wrinkles picked out, depicted stretching with his hands clasped together whilst seated on jagged rockwork and dressed in loose robes revealing his emaciated collarbones and upper ribs, the patina of a warm reddish-brown colour

Brian Harkins Oriental Art Ltd., London.

There are age cracks to the base, including a 1.5cm crack to the base that has opened slightly, as typical of aged bamboo. Otherwise good condition.
"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."

Another bamboo figure of a yawning luohan of similar outstanding quality in the Shanghai Museum, carved by Feng Xilu, is illustrated in Literati Spirit. Art of Chinese Bamboo Carving, Shanghai, 2001, pl. 20.