AI Description is as follow:
This item is a
hand-carved stone relief fragment of
Guanyin (also known as Avalokiteshvara), the Bodhisattva of Compassion. These fragments are often identified as "bas relief" or "high relief" carvings, typically made from materials like
white marble or
alabaster. [
1,
2,
3]
Key Identification Features
- Artistic Style: The fragment depicts Guanyin with a serene, meditative expression, downcast eyes, and a high, ornate headdress (chignon). In Chinese art, Guanyin is predominantly portrayed as a female figure embodying mercy and grace.
- Iconography: The elaborate hair and presence of jewelry are traditional markers of a Bodhisattva, who remains in the secular world to help others, unlike the more simply depicted historical Buddha.
- Form: This specific piece is a wall fragment, likely originally part of a larger shrine, architectural panel, or temple decoration. It is similar to mid-20th-century vintage carvings found in southern China or earlier antique marble plaques. [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]
Material and Authenticity
While high-end antiques can be made of
white nephrite jade, which has a waxy luster and stays cool to the touch, many decorative collectors' pieces are carved from
white marble or
soapstone. [
1,
2,
3,
4]
- Antique vs. Reproduction: Authentic antique fragments often show natural mineral alterations or calcification from long-term environmental exposure. Many "vintage" examples on the market, such as those found on eBay, date from the early to mid-20th century.
A family member was visiting China when it was first opened by Nixon in the 1970`s. In this trip he was given a opportunity to buy this object by a young Chinese boy just before leaving on his flight. The boy said it was from a wall that was recently torn down. Unfortunately the buyer of this item was unable to provide any additional information before he passed.
The Age? Unknown outside of it being prior to when China was opened to foreign visitors in the 70s. It appears well worn indicating it was possibly made prior to the Mao era of China. No markings appear on the item.
Enjoy this limited opportunity to get a unique part of history in your collection!