{"product_id":"large-chinese-qing-dynasty-rootwood-figure-of-a-daoist-immortal-probably-li-tieguai","title":"Large Chinese Qing Dynasty Rootwood Figure of a Daoist Immortal, Probably Li Tieguai","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cspan\u003e19th Century\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003e17 inches high overall\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA remarkably expressive and sculptural Chinese rootwood figure dating to the Qing Dynasty, probably representing the Daoist immortal Li Tieguai. Beautifully conceived around the naturally contorted wood, the carver incorporated knots, burls, fissures and irregular growths directly into the figure’s robes and dramatic composition.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe immortal stands in an animated pose with one leg raised, surrounded by extraordinary rugged root formations. Particularly appealing is the separately carved head, with its exuberant smiling expression, deeply modeled features and tremendous personality. The head retains its original long neck tenon, designed to slide into a corresponding mortise in the body rather than being glued in place.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA naturalistic trunk-like element alongside the figure contains a deep 5\/8-inch diameter × 1¼-inch socket, apparently intended for a now-lost removable attribute. Its absence prevents absolute identification, although the pose and comparison with known Qing rootwood figures make Li Tieguai a strong possibility.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eThe carving retains a rich amber-to-reddish-brown surface with darkened recesses, natural age checking and beautifully developed patina. Expected age cracks, minor losses and wear; removable head remains intact by original design. Mounted on a later wooden base.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cbr\u003e\u003cspan\u003eA wonderfully eccentric 19th-century Qing Dynasty carving, combining accomplished figural work with the unpredictable natural form of rootwood to exceptional sculptural effect.\u003c\/span\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Folkism Antiques LLC","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":67689738567789,"sku":null,"price":500.0,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0658\/1957\/4381\/files\/372D91A5-56CC-4A53-9D90-529AD5C0BEEB.jpg?v=1791560131","url":"https:\/\/folkismantiques.com\/products\/large-chinese-qing-dynasty-rootwood-figure-of-a-daoist-immortal-probably-li-tieguai","provider":"Folkism Antiques LLC","version":"1.0","type":"link"}