Chinese statuette - any help much appreciated

[Darcy]

Hello everyone,

I am new to this forum and I would very much appreciate any help with this piece of antique. It came from my grandfather, who was an antiques collector (unfortunately his apparently vast collection has been widely dispersed) and I received it as a birthday gift from my father. I think it has been in the family for around 50 years. The problem is, I have no idea what this statue may represent, how old it is, and what it approximate value might be. If anyone could provide any insight I would be very, very grateful indeed.

It appears to be a monk or medicine man of some kind, and the hole in his hand might indicate that a staff is missing.









I wonder what you guys make of it.

[railman44]

What is the size in inches?  It could easily be Japanese.  Does it appear to be carved out of wood?  Antique or not, if it's carved, someone did a superb job.  Can you provide a photo of the bottom?

[Darcy]

Thanks for the quick reply!

It is not carved out of wood, but stone. With my limited knowledge I would say soapstone. The size in inches is about 14-15 total, with the lower part being a pedestal about 4 inches high. I've posted some photos of the bottoms of both statue and pedestal - perhaps they are of any use. Also another detail.

It's quite a superb job, and I'm wondering when they did it...

[KC]

I am surmising that it is soapstone as well.  Wow!  Intriguing piece!  I love the way it is carved and natural - true artisan's work!

Typically it is of a medicine man - he held a very prestigious position in their societies and his presence depicted health.

Some similar works you can view www.rafa.com/soapstone.htm

Have to ponder this awhile.  The key here is to determine if in fact it is soapstone...origin and age!  Hmmmmmmmm.......... .

Carvings were made from jade, marble, soapstone, etc.....even ivory!  Don't think he is missing a staff...there is already one carved in!

[D&b antiques]

He is of course a Buddist Monk a ( God ) representing  Prosperity & longevity ( I could use some of both ) conservative value. $ 250.00  to $ 300.00 Dollars.

[Darcy]

Interesting, thank you all. Would you also be able to date the statue roughly?

[KC]

Totally agree with D&b about the Monk!  Was in a fog cooking for the big meal later and trying to unwind!

Wonder it it held incense sticks, thus the reason for the holes!?!?!?!

[D&b antiques]

He looks to be 75 to Hundred years old.

[Darcy]

Once again thank you very much for your quick answers. The Monk lives in the Netherlands, by the way