A pair of massive gilt-lacquered wood figures of acolytes, Qing dynasty, 18th / 19th century | 清十八 / 十九世紀 木漆金善財童子及龍女立像

New York Private Collection.

紐約私人收藏

The technique of coating carved wood figures with gilt-lacquer appears to have emerged during the early part of the Ming dynasty and continued into the Qing, when the craftsmanship of this technique was perfected. It is rare to find life-sized figures, such as the present pair, preserved from the Qing dynasty. The present figures are exceptional for their sculptural excellence and naturalistic portrayal. The sculptor artfully conveyed their spirit of benevolence and serenity, especially noticeable in the modeling of the softened features and lively expressions. The skill of the artisan is demonstrated in the graceful sense of natural movement of the long flowing robes and voluminous sleeves.

The two figures can be identified as Shancai Tongzi 善財童子 and Longnü 龍女, both of whom are considered acolytes of Guanyin and often depicted flanking the deity in the iconography of Chinese Buddhism. Shancai Tongzi is often portrayed as a boy devotionally holding his hands closed in front of his chest. See, for example, a Ming dynasty gilt and polychrome wood example of a smaller size, depicted in the same posture, in the Brooklyn Museum, New York (accession no. 83.238), published on the Museum's website. Longnü is described as being a young daughter of the Dragon King of the sea. She often appears holding a precious pearl in showing gratitude for Guanyin's visit and is depicted teaching at the Dragon King's palace.