Probably Qing Dynasty, 19th Century

A striking and substantial group of two Chinese carved brown mottled hardstone figural carvings, one modeled as a seated scholar-official or immortal in flowing robes and formal headdress, the other as Budai, the laughing Buddha, seated in relaxed pose with exposed belly and animated expression. Each figure is raised on a rectangular plinth finely engraved with scrolling floral ornament, the Budai example further enriched with a bird-and-foliage panel. Both carvings display strong hand-work, well-articulated drapery, and richly polished surfaces with attractive variegated stone throughout. Handsome cabinet or scholar’s table objects with strong decorative presence and good visual scale.

While likely not conceived as an exact original pair, the two carvings are closely related in material, taste, and purpose, and present beautifully together. A highly appealing lot of antique Chinese hardstone figural carvings, probably dating to the Qing dynasty, 19th century.

Condition:
General age wear and surface abrasions. Scholar figure with old loss to one projecting arm/hand element. Minor edge and base chips, including corner wear. Undersides with old pads