East Asia, China, Qing Dynasty, 18th century CE. A finely carved stone head of Buddha with a serene facial expression, tightly curled hair nodes rising to a rounded ushnisha, heavily laden downcast meditative eyes, a noble nose, elongated earlobes, and gently smiling heart-shaped lips - clearly a visage that could inspire hours peaceful meditation. Size: 5.25" W x 7.75" H (13.3 cm x 19.7 cm)
The head of the Buddha is perhaps the most significant element of the deity as it represents the immense body of knowledge and wisdom of Buddha along with the tranquil nature that emanates from its expression. A peaceful countenance with a flame Ushnisha symbolizing the wisdom and knowledge acquired after attaining enlightenment, and prominent elongated ears, a physical feature symbolic of the Buddha's time as a prince when he wore elaborate ear ornaments to demonstrate wealth and prosperity. Of course, the prince stopped wearing them when he left the palace to become an ascetic; however, his earlobes remained stretched signifying a renunciation of the material world. Furthermore, the curled, short hair of the Buddha signifies the nobility of Buddha. Beyond the multi-layered meaning embodied in the iconography of this piece, its technique and artistry is exceptional.
Provenance: private Healy collection, Studio City, California, USA, acquired over the last twenty years
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#141943
Condition
A head from a larger statue with loss at neckline. Chips to left eyebrow, nicks to hair curls, peripheries of ears, and other high-pointed areas. Nice white inclusions in the stone. Earthen and mineral deposits on surface.