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Hoping for help in identifying the person and animal in this 12" tall carving. He looks like some kind of warrior? Is that a foo dog/lion he is riding? Significance of the objects he holds in his hands? I don't see any markings on this piece. Very nice detail. Any idea of when it was carved? So any questions! Thank you in advance. Mark

This probably represents the Chinese God of Wealth, Zhao Gongming, riding his tiger and grasping a gold "sycee" (Ingot) in his right hand for some unseen recipient. Many comparable figural carvings with bone teeth and eyes added were produced in the late 20th century, after wood-carving and other Chinese artistic endeavors began recovering from the oppressive Cultural Revolution of 1965-75. Yours is particularly well-preserved.

Best regards,

Bill H.

Bill - thank you for your reply. I did some more research yesterday - could it possibly be one of the Four Heavenly Kings - the King of the West? This one is in bronze but has several similarities.

https://www.incollect.com/listings/decorative-arts/objects/an-antique-bronze-statue-of-buddhist-guardian-214337

I doubt it, since the Heavenly King is not riding a tiger or displaying any signs of wealth, only emblems of his reign.

Bill H.

Thank you once again for your help! Mark

I'm not sure the first photos are so distorted? Hopefully these are better. Mark

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