Vintage Chinese Hand-Carved Hardwood Figurine Sculpture Folk Figure 5"H

Vintage Chinese Hand-Carved Hardwood Figurine Sculpture Folk/Spiritual Figure 6"H

China, late Qing to early Republic period, circa early 1900's 5"H

A finely hand-carved Chinese hardwood figurine depicting a traditional figure from classical Chinese culture: one of the immortals. The carving emphasizes expressive facial features, flowing garments, and naturalistic posture, demonstrating skilled craftsmanship and confident use of the material.

The figure is carved from dense hardwood with a warm natural patina developed through age and handling. Tool marks and subtle asymmetry are visible throughout, consistent with hand carving rather than later machine production. Details such as the folds of the robe, hands, and facial expression are rendered with care, giving the piece strong character and presence despite its compact scale.

Such figures were commonly made for scholar’s desks, household altars, or decorative display, and often reference themes of wisdom, longevity, humor, or moral virtue in Chinese visual culture. Pieces of this type were appreciated both as decorative objects and as symbols tied to Confucian, Daoist, or popular folk traditions.

Condition is consistent with age and use. Surface wear, minor edge softening, and small age-related imperfections are present. No major breaks observed. Please refer to photos for detailed condition and carving quality.